Pankaj Dheer, Mahabharat actor passes away at 68 after battle with cancer

Popular TV actor Pankaj Dheer is no more. The veteran was best known for his iconic role as warrior Karna in BR Chopra's Mahabharat. The news of his death has been confirmed by CINTAA and Amit Behl, as reported by India Today. He was 68.

Pankaj Dheer dies in Mumbai

Pankaj Dheer was diagnosed with cancer, as per reports. It is believed that he had a relapse, causing his health to deteriorate. Reportedly, he underwent a major surgery recently.

An official statement from CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association) was released on Wednesday. Confirming Pankaj Dheer’s death, the statement read: "With profound grief and deep sorrow, we inform you of the passing 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 pm, next to Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai."

Meanwhile, filmmaker Ashoke Pandit revealed the cause of Pankaj Dheer's death. He said that the veteran died due to cancer.

Pandit told PTI, “He passed away due to cancer this morning. He had been in and out of hospital in the past months.”

Meanwhile, social media is filled with heartbroken fans extending condolences to the late actor's family.

Who was Pankaj Dheer

Pankaj Dheer is among the most popular faces in the TV and film industry. He began in career in the 1980s and became a household name with BR Chopra's television series Mahabharat.

Pankaj Dheer shows and films

He starred in several popular TV shows, including Zee Horror Show, Chandrakanta, Junoon, Karmaphal Daata Shani, Badho Bahu, Sasural Simar Ka, Devon Ke Dev...Mahadev and Savdhaan India

On the film front, Dheer has featured in several Bollywood hits such as Saugandh, Soldier, Baadshah, Inteqam, Sadak, Tahalka, Sanam Bewafa, Tarzan, Andaz and Ashaant to only a few.

Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and son, actor Nikitin Dheer.