Pankaj Dheer, Who Played 'Karna' In BR Chopra's 'Mahabharat' Passed Away At 68, Know The Reason

Pankaj Dheer was one of the most talented actors in the television world, who was known for his iconic role as 'Karna' in B.R Chopra's Mahabharat. He did such an amazing job while playing the role of  'Karna' that his photos were even used in several textbooks to refer to 'Karna'. Pankaj had been in the industry for several years. However, the actor recently left his entire fandom in shock and grief as he passed away at the age of 68. Yes! On October 15, 2025, Pankaj Dheer reportedly passed away. While his family members are yet to release any statements yet, his entire fandom was left in utter shock and pain with the passing of the talented actor.

Pankaj Dheer passed away at the age of 68, reportedly after a tough battle with cancer

Pankaj Dheer, who once ruled the television industry with his iconic role in Mahabharat, left people in tears with his sudden passing at the age of 68. While the exact reason for his passing is yet to be officially announced, sources revealed to NDTV shared that he was battling cancer. On the other hand, back in March 2025, a report on IWM Buzz revealed that the actor was hospitalised around that time, as his health suddenly deteriorated. Back then, nothing much was revealed about what happened to the actor or how he was doing, leaving his fans worried. The report on the site revealed that he was admitted to the ICU due to serious health issues. And now, within a few months, the report about his passing left the industry in grief.

Pankaj Dheer reportedly underwent a major surgery a few months back, his co-star, Firoz Khan confirms the news

Another report on India TV mentioned that Pankaj Dheer was unwell for a long time, and his battle with cancer relapsed in the last few months. If the same report is to be believed, the actor underwent a major surgery a few months back, but he succumbed to the disease. While Pankaj Dheer's family is yet to release any statement on the actor's death, Firoz Khan, who played 'Arjun' alongside him in B.R. Chopra's Mahabharat, paid tribute to the actor through a social media post. Offering his condolences, Firoz, on social media, wrote:

"Gentleman!!! Bids goodbye Will miss you PD. Stay blessed."

CINTAA also confirmed Pankaj Dheer's passing. In a statement on October 15, 2025, CINTAA confirmed that the actor has passed away and the cremation will be held in the Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai, at 4:30 p.m. Pankaj made his debut back in 1983, and it was for his role as 'Karna', that he instantly grabbed the attention, given to his amazing acting skills. For the unversed, Pankaj wanted to play the role of 'Arjun' in Mahabharat; however, despite having aced the audition, he couldn’t finally bag the opportunity and ended up being 'Karna'.

We wish Pankaj Dheer's family strength to deal with this tough time.

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