Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for playing the role of Karna in BR Chopra’s ‘Mahabharat’, passed away on October 15. His fans and well-wishers have expressed their grief upon hearing the tragic news and also shared their condolences. Look back at his incredible work in movies and television shows.

Mahabharata
Pankaj Dheer played the role of Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat and became insanely popular for his performance. He reprised his role in the 1997 series ‘Mahabharat Katha’.

Sadak
Dheer played the role of Police Inspector Irani in ‘Sadak’. The movie also starred Sanjay Dutt, Pooja Bhatt, and Deepak Tijori in the lead roles.

Chandrakanta
After finding success in ‘Mahabharat’, Pankaj Dheer worked in several movies but found success in TV again with ‘Chandrakanta’. He played the role of Shivdutt, King of Chunargarh, and was seen alongside Mukesh Khanna and Irrfan Khan.

Baadshah
In ‘Baadshah’, Pankaj Dheer was seen as Mr Khanna, the security officer in charge. The movie also stars Shah Rukh Khan and Twinkle Khanna in the lead roles.

Gippi
In Andaaz, Pankaj Dheer was seen as Rohit Malhotra. The movie also stars Akshay Kumar, Lara Dutta and Priyanka Chopra in the lead roles.

His last rites will be held on October 15 at 4:30 PM in Mumbai.

The news was confirmed by CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes Association) via a statement. “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 cremation will be held today at 4:30 p.m Next to Pawan Hans, Vile Parle(W) Mumbai,” the statement read.

The reason behind his demise has not been revealed. According to India Today, the actor was diagnosed with cancer but recovered. A few months back, the cancer relapsed, and he had to go through a major surgery.