Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer has passed away at 68, leaving a void in the Indian television and film industry. Best known for his legendary portrayal of Karna in BR Chopra’s 1988 series Mahabharat, Dheer had been battling cancer and was hospitalized several times in recent months.
Career Highlights of Pankaj Dheer
The news of Pankaj Dheer passing away brings back memories of his iconic contributions to TV and films. He starred in beloved shows like Chandrakanta, Badho Bahu, Zee Horror Show, Kanoon, and Sasural Simar Ka, as well as films such as Soldier, Andaz, Baadshah, and Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge.
Hailing from Punjab, he was the son of filmmaker CL Dheer. He co-founded Visage Studioz in Mumbai with his brother Satluj Dheer and launched the Abbhinnay Acting Academy in 2010 to mentor aspiring actors.
Iconic Roles: Karna and King Shivdutt
Pankaj Dheer became a household name for playing Karna. He also captivated audiences as King Shivdutt in Chandrakanta (1994), playing a vishpurush whose touch could be deadly.
In recent years, Dheer appeared in the 2019 web series Poison and the 2024 TV show Dhruv Tara – Samay Sadi Se Pare. His legacy continues through his son Nikitin Dheer, known for Chennai Express and Sooryavanshi, and daughter-in-law Kratika Sengar from Jhansi Ki Rani..
FAQs
Q: What caused Pankaj Dheer’s death?
A: Pankaj Dheer passed away due to cancer after months of treatment and hospitalization.
Q: Which roles made Pankaj Dheer famous?
A: He became an icon as Karna in Mahabharat and King Shivdutt in Chandrakanta.
Q: Who are Pankaj Dheer’s family members in the entertainment industry?
A: His son Nikitin Dheer is an actor, and daughter-in-law Kratika Sengar is known for Jhansi Ki Rani.
Q: When did Pankaj Dheer start his acting career?
A: He started in the 1980s, but Pankaj Dheer is most remembered for Mahabharat.
