Today was the last day of the life of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who is most remembered for his iconic performance as Karna in B.R. Chopra's Mahabharat. After a protracted fight with cancer, the late star passed away on October 15, 2025. "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 Cine & TV Artistes' Association (CINTAA) confirmed, expressing "profound grief and deep sorrow" over the loss of its former Hon. General Secretary and ex-Chairman. The cremation will take place adjacent to Pawan Hans in Vile Parle (W), Mumbai, today at 4:30 p.m.

After receiving therapy for several months, Pankaj Dheer, who would have turned 69 in November of this year, passed away with his family by his side. He became a legend for his performance as Karna in the late 1980s television epic, which was renowned for its emotional depth and silent power. He then became well-known on both large and small screens, starring in TV series like Chandrakanta and Badho Bahu as well as films like Baadshah (1999), Soldier (1998), and Sadak (1991). Beyond performing, Pankaj was devoted to developing up-and-coming artists through his production company, Visage Studioz, and his acting school, Abbhinnay.

His daughter-in-law Kratika Sengar, son Nikitin Dheer, and wife Pammi Dheer, all of whom are involved in the entertainment industry, survive him. In Mumbai, the family is anticipated to carry out the final ceremonies this evening. Fans and coworkers have paid sincere homage to him on social media, calling him "the truest Karna television ever saw" and "a gentleman on and off screen."