The news struck like a bolt of lightning across the television and film fraternity in India. Pankaj Dheer, the iconic actor who brought the legendary Karna to life in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat, passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68.

His struggle with cancer had been a private battle, yet despite his illness, he had tried to return to work, embodying the same resilience and determination that had defined his career. Fans across the nation were left in shock and disbelief. How could someone who had symbolized courage and honor on screen succumb to such a harsh reality?

The announcement of his death came from actor Amit Behl, a close friend, confirming what nobody wanted to hear. Images of Dheer’s final days, shared by family and friends, showed him serene, dignified, and surrounded by loved ones. There was a quiet strength in his gaze, a calm acceptance of life’s final chapter that contrasted with the heroic, larger-than-life characters he had portrayed. In these moments, Pankaj Dheer was not Karna, not an actor, but a man facing mortality with grace.

Pankaj Dheer’s journey in Indian television was legendary. His portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat became a cultural milestone, making him a household name. He imbued the character with not just physical presence but emotional depth, making audiences empathize with Karna’s struggles, his loyalty, and his tragic destiny.

To millions, Dheer’s Karna was more than fiction; he was a moral compass, a hero whose values and dilemmas mirrored life’s own complexities. Each scene, each dialogue delivered with sincerity, left a mark that would remain etched in memory for decades.

Beyond Mahabharat, Dheer’s contributions to television and cinema were significant. He appeared in serials such as Chandrakanta, The Great Maratha, and Yuga, delivering memorable performances that showcased his versatility. In films like Soldier, Sadak, and Badshah, he took smaller yet impactful roles, demonstrating a commitment to craft that transcended fame. His career was a testament to the power of dedication, showing that true artistry is not about the size of the role but the depth and authenticity with which it is performed.

His family, a source of comfort and support throughout his life, shared in the grief of his passing. Wife Anita Dheer, a costume designer, stood by him during his illness, providing care and companionship.

Son Nikitin Dheer, himself an accomplished actor, and daughter-in-law Kritika Sengar were by his side, offering love and solace during his final moments. These close-knit bonds highlighted the personal dimension of Pankaj Dheer, a man whose life extended beyond the screen into the heart of family and personal relationships.

The cause of death, cancer, had been known to a few close friends, but the public revelation still shocked fans. Pankaj Dheer had been battling the illness privately, refusing to let it define the public narrative of his life. He remained committed to acting, attempting to return to work despite his declining health. This determination resonated with fans who had admired his perseverance on screen. Even in the face of adversity, Dheer exemplified courage, a trait that mirrored the heroic qualities of Karna he so famously portrayed.

Tributes poured in immediately from fans, co-actors, and industry professionals. Salman Khan, among others, attended the funeral at Santacruz Crematorium in Mumbai, paying homage to a man who had influenced an entire generation of actors and viewers. Social media platforms flooded with memories of Dheer’s iconic performances, highlighting not just his talent but his humility, warmth, and mentorship. Every post, every story, reflected the deep connection that millions felt toward a man who had transcended the boundaries of television.

Pankaj Dheer’s last public appearances had been filled with quiet moments and intimate reflections. Short videos and photos captured him in the company of his wife and close friends, including Puneet Issar and Feroz Khan, who had played Duryodhan and Arjuna, respectively, in Mahabharat. These glimpses into his private life revealed a man of warmth, humor, and contemplation. They showed that beyond the warrior, there was a human being deeply aware of life’s fragility, treasuring every moment with those he loved.

The Mahabharat community felt the loss profoundly. Colleagues who had worked with Dheer remembered him not only as an extraordinary actor but also as a mentor who guided young talent with patience and insight. Stories of his discipline on set, his focus during shoots, and his genuine camaraderie with fellow actors painted a picture of a man who valued both craft and humanity. Puneet Issar recalled, “Pankaj was the backbone of our team. He carried the gravitas of Karna effortlessly, but off-screen, he was warm, generous, and incredibly wise.”

Dheer’s cultural impact extended beyond acting. His portrayal of Karna influenced public perception of mythology and heroism. Audiences debated Karna’s moral dilemmas and admired his loyalty, and Dheer’s interpretation made these timeless lessons accessible and relatable.

The actor’s ability to connect with viewers, to convey subtle emotions with authenticity, set him apart in an era where television was the primary storyteller for millions of Indians. His Karna became a symbol of honor, struggle, and ethical complexity.

The funeral, held on October 15, 2025, was both somber and celebratory. Fans, friends, and colleagues gathered to honor the life of a man whose influence transcended the screen. Stories were shared, memories recounted, and the air was thick with emotion. Despite the sorrow, there was a sense of closure, a recognition of a life fully lived, of a career that had shaped television history, and of a personal journey marked by courage and integrity.