Pankaj Dheer, born on 9 November 1956 in Punjab, India, etched his name in the annals of Indian television and cinema with a gravitas few could match. Best remembered for his portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat, Dheer’s talent, discipline, and humility made him a beloved figure among audiences and peers alike. On 15 October 2025, the world lost this talented star after a battle with cancer, but his art, his roles, and his legacy continue to shine. Khaleej Times+5Wikipedia+5mint+5
Early Life & Entry into Acting
Born to a family with cinematic leanings, Pankaj Dheer initially aspired to be a director. The Times of India But destiny had other plans when he stepped in front of the camera, first in supporting roles before landing projects that showcased his depth as an actor. Gujarat Samachar+2mint+2
His early work included small roles in Bollywood films and television, which gradually built up his reputation. While many know him for his later successes, those early roles laid the foundation for his dramatic presence and command onscreen. mint+2Gujarat Samachar+2
Breakthrough: Karna in Mahabharat
In 1988, Pankaj Dheer received his career-defining role: Karna in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat. This epic television series captured the imagination of India, and Dheer’s performance as the tragic, noble warrior Karna resonated deeply with viewers. Onmanorama+3mint+3Gujarat Samachar+3
So powerful was his portrayal that images of him as Karna found their way into school textbooks, and statues inspired by this version of Karna are still worshipped in places like Karnal and Bastar. The role changed how Karna is visually imagined for many generations. Wikipedia+2Moneycontrol+2
Other Notable Roles & Contributions
Pankaj Dheer didn’t rest on the laurels of Mahabharat. Over the decades, he played varied and memorable characters in both television and film. Some of his other significant TV shows include:
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Chandrakanta where he portrayed powerful mythic/fantasy figures. mint+2Onmanorama+2
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The Great Maratha, Yug, Badho Bahu, Sasural Simar Ka, Kanoon. Gujarat Samachar+3mint+3Khaleej Times+3
In films, he made strong appearances in Sadak, Soldier, Baadshah, Taarzan: The Wonder Car, Sanam Bewafa, and others. Though often in supporting roles, his presence always lifted the scenes. The Times of India+3mint+3Gujarat Samachar+3
Off-screen: Studio, Academy & Mentorship
Pankaj Dheer was more than an actor. He co-founded Visage Studioz (with his brother Satluj Dheer) in Jogeshwari, Mumbai. Wikipedia+2Gujarat Samachar+2
In 2010, he started Abbhinnay Acting Academy, with Gufi Paintal serving as a faculty head, contributing to the training of many upcoming actors. Wikipedia+1
These ventures are part of his larger legacy — not just what he acted, but how he helped shape the next generation. His off-screen work demonstrated his love for theatre, craft, and giving back to the community. Wikipedia+2Gujarat Samachar+2
Personal Life & Family
Pankaj Dheer was married to Anita Dheer, and they shared a son, Nikitin Dheer, who followed his father’s footsteps into acting. The Times of India+3Wikipedia+3Gujarat Samachar+3 Nikitin has appeared in Bollywood films (e.g., Chennai Express, Sooryavanshi) and works in television too. Khaleej Times+2Indiatimes+2
His daughter-in-law, Kratika Sengar, is also a well-known television actress. Wikipedia+1
The Final Act: Illness & Passing
After years of health struggles, Pankaj Dheer succumbed to cancer on 15 October 2025 at the age of 68. Onmanorama+3India Today+3mint+3 He had been hospitalized multiple times in preceding months. mint+1
CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association), of which he was a former General Secretary and Chairman of its Trust, confirmed his death and announced his cremation to be held the same day in Vile Parle (West), Mumbai. India Today+2mint+2
Legacy & Impact
Why Pankaj Dheer will be remembered:
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Iconic Role as Karna: Few roles in Indian TV have had as deep an imprint. The image of Dheer as Karna continues to be referenced in textbooks and art. Wikipedia+1
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Versatility: He acted across genres — mythological, fantasy, courtroom drama, mainstream Bollywood — smoothly shifting between lead/supporting roles, always with dignity.
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Mentorship: Through his studio and acting academy, he nurtured talent and helped build institutions that support acting craft in India.
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Cultural Imprint: For many, seeing him as Karna shaped their understanding of that character. Being worshipped in temples, retrospectives, and enduring admiration show how deeply he was respected. Wikipedia+2The Times of India+2
Net Worth & Earnings
While exact figures often vary depending on sources:
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It’s reported his net worth was approximately ₹42 crore (Indian Rupees), derived from acting, investments, business ventures, and property holdings. Indiatimes+1
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During his Mahabharat days, his per-episode remuneration was modest by today’s standards but significant for that era. Indiatimes
Lessons from His Journey
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Dedication to Craft: Even when roles were small, his commitment made them memorable.
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Humility: Despite fame, he invested in others (through teaching).
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Courage in Life: Battled illness, continued to work and contribute.
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Cultural resonance: Role models like him show how mythological and historical figures can become personally meaningful when portrayed with sincerity.
Conclusion
Pankaj Dheer was more than an actor — he was Karna to millions, a mentor to many, a creator off-screen, and an institution in his own right. His passing leaves a void, but his performances, his studio, his academy, and the inspiration he offered will persist. His story reminds us of the power of art to transcend time, and how true legacy is built not just through what one achieves, but how one uplifts others.