Bollywood and television are in mourning today as Pankaj Dheer, best known to millions as Karna from the epic Mahabharat, passed away on Wednesday after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 68. The Times of India+3The Indian Express+3www.ndtv.com+3
Dheer had been dealing with health complications and hospitalizations in recent months, as the illness resurfaced despite earlier treatment efforts. The Times of India+2www.ndtv.com+2
A heartfelt tribute from Hema Malini
Among those expressing grief, actress and politician Hema Malini posted a deeply emotional note, calling Dheer “a very dear friend.” She shared unpublished pictures of them and recalled how supportive he had always been in her endeavors. The Daily Jagran+1
Her message read, in part:
“I have lost a very dear friend today and am totally devastated. Pankaj Dheer … so full of life, has breathed his last.” The Daily Jagran+1
She also extended her condolences to his wife, Anita, calling her “the light of his life.” The Daily Jagran+1
Hema Malini was among those who attended the funeral, standing by the family in their hour of loss. The Times of India+2The Times of India+2
The family, the funeral, the legacy
His son, actor Nikitin Dheer, known for films like Chennai Express and Housefull 5, was seen deeply emotional at the funeral, comforting his mother, Anita. The Times of India+2The Times of India+2 The funeral was held in Mumbai at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle, with many prominent industry names turning up to pay their respects. The Times of India+4The Indian Express+4News On Air+4
Salman Khan, visibly overcome, attended the final rites and shared an emotional moment with the family. The Times of India+2The Times of India+2 Other celebrities present included Sidharth Malhotra, Arbaaz Khan, and directors Abbas-Mustan, among many more. The Times of India+2The Times of India+2
Co-stars also paid tribute. Mahabharat’s Arjun actor Feroz Khan shared a video of their past moments together, saying he would miss him always. www.ndtv.com+2The Times of India+2 Actress Yashashri Masurkar remembered Dheer as one of the kindest people she had met. The Times of India Esha Deol described him as a beloved uncle and a wonderful human being. The Times of India+2The Times of India+2
More on his life and impact
Dheer’s portrayal of Karna made such an impact that his face became synonymous with the character. In many places, textbooks even used his image when describing Karna. He once noted that temples and statues had been made in his honor, particularly in Karnal and Bastar. News On Air+3The Indian Express+3www.ndtv.com+3
Beyond Mahabharat, he acted in films like Baadshah, Zameen, Soldier, Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge, and in TV shows including Chandrakanta, Sasural Simar Ka, and Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat. Wikipedia+3www.ndtv.com+3News On Air+3
He also ventured behind the camera — he co-founded Visage Studioz in Mumbai with his brother and later started the Abbhinnay Acting Academy for aspiring actors. www.ndtv.com+2News On Air+2
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife Anita and son Nikitin (married to actress Kratika Sengar). The Economic Times+3www.ndtv.com+3News On Air+3
Last words from his son
In his grief, Nikitin Dheer shared a message:
“Whatever comes, let it come. Whatever stays, let it stay. Whatever goes, let it go. As a Shiva Bhakt, say ‘Shivarpanam’ and move on! … but very hard to do.” The Indian Express
Pankaj Dheer’s passing leaves a void not just in the world of mythological serials, but in many hearts. He was more than just an actor — for many, he was Karna. Rest in peace.
