Pankaj Dheer, the Indian actor best known for his portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra's iconic television series "Mahabharat," has passed away at the age of 68. He died on October 15, 2025, after a battle with cancer.

Dheer was a familiar face in Indian television and cinema, with a career spanning several decades. His role as Karna, the tragic hero of the Mahabharata, resonated deeply with audiences and cemented his place in television history. Fellow "Mahabharat" actor Firoz Khan, who played Arjun, confirmed the news of Dheer's passing. Sources indicate that Dheer had been in and out of hospitals in recent months while battling cancer.

Beyond "Mahabharat," Dheer also appeared in numerous other television serials, including "Chandrakanta," "The Great Maratha," "Yug," and "Badho Bahu". He also played a lead role in an episode of "Zee Horror Show" and the defense lawyer in the TV series "Kanoon". His film credits include roles in movies such as "Sadak," "Soldier," and "Baadshah".

Dheer's portrayal of Karna was so impactful that his image was used in textbooks as a reference to the character. Statues of him are worshipped as Karna in temples in Karnal and Bastar.

In 2006, Dheer established a shooting studio, Visage Studioz, in Mumbai with his brother Satluj Dheer. In 2010, he launched the Abbhinnay Acting Academy in Mumbai, with actor Gufi Paintal serving as the head of faculty.

Pankaj Dheer is survived by his son, Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor, and his daughter-in-law, actress Kratika Sengar.