Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for portraying Karna in B.R. Chopra’s iconic television series Mahabharat, passed away on October 15, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 65.
The news was confirmed by his longtime friend and fellow actor Amit Behl, who told India Today that Dheer had been undergoing treatment for cancer, which had relapsed a few months ago following a major surgery.
“With profound grief and deep sorrow, we inform you of the passing away of our Trust’s erstwhile Chairman and CINTAA’s former Hon. General Secretary, Shri Pankaj Dheer ji, on 15th October 2025,” the Cine & TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) said in an official statement.
The cremation will take place at 4:30 p.m. today near Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai.
Dheer’s commanding performance as Karna in Mahabharat made him a household name across India. Over the years, he also appeared in several popular films and television shows, earning admiration for his versatility and screen presence.
Fans and colleagues from the entertainment industry have taken to social media to express their condolences, remembering him as a dignified artist and a compassionate human being.
