Actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his powerful portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat, leaves behind not just a rich legacy in Indian television and cinema but also a life full of passion, hard work, and success.
Born in Punjab, India, Pankaj Dheer — fondly known as Panka among friends — was an Indian actor and film director who followed Hinduism and held a graduate degree. He began his career with the film Sookha in 1983, rose to national fame with Mahabharat in 1988, and later turned director with My Father Godfather in 2014.
Net worth and earnings
According to reports, Pankaj Dheer’s estimated net worth stood at $180 million (around Rs 1,500 crore), making him one of the wealthiest television veterans in the country. His annual earnings reportedly ranged between $1 million and $5 million, accumulated through his acting career, production ventures, and brand collaborations.
Personal life and family
Pankaj Dheer was married to Anita Dheer and came from a film background — his father, C.L. Dheer, was a noted film director. The actor was known for his refined personality, interest in horse riding and travelling, and love for the color green.
Despite his fame, Dheer maintained a low profile and was admired for his humility. His death on October 15, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer, left a void in the entertainment industry.
Fans and colleagues continue to celebrate him as the man who immortalized Karna on television — a symbol of strength, loyalty, and grace, much like Dheer himself in real life.
