Nikitin Dheer recently shared a heartfelt tribute to his father, veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68. Pankaj Dheer, best known for his iconic portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra's Mahabharat (1988), had been battling cancer. Nikitin's emotional message, posted on social media, reflects on his father's life, legacy, and the profound impact he had on him.

In his tribute, Nikitin acknowledged the outpouring of love and support his family received following his father's death. He wrote about the numerous messages they received, with younger individuals offering prayers, elders sending blessings, and friends and colleagues sharing their love. Nikitin expressed that the love and respect shown towards his father were beyond words.

Nikitin reflected on the life lessons his father imparted, emphasizing the importance of grit, character, loyalty, and perseverance. He highlighted his father's encouragement to follow one's dreams, even when faced with skepticism. "Today I am more proud than ever to be his son," Nikitin wrote, "He was the best father a boy could ever ask for". He added that his father's teachings would serve as his "north star" throughout his life.

Pankaj Dheer's influence extended beyond his role as Karna. He was also known for his roles in Chandrakanta, The Great Maratha, Yug, and Badho Bahu. He appeared in numerous Hindi films, often in supporting roles, including Sadak, Soldier, and Baadshah. His portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat left a lasting impact, with his image being used in school textbooks and statues erected in his honor.

Born on November 9, 1956, Pankaj Dheer came from a family with a background in film; his father, C.L. Dheer, was a filmmaker. Besides acting, Pankaj Dheer also ventured into production and education. In 2006, he co-founded Visage Studioz in Mumbai with his brother Satluj Dheer. In 2010, he established the Abbhinnay Acting Academy, where actor Gufi Paintal served as faculty head.

Nikitin's tribute also touched upon his father's love for cinema and music, noting that Pankaj referred to cinema as "Cine-Ma". He emphasized the importance of love and respect for the film industry, values he inherited from his father. Nikitin shared a video collage on Instagram featuring Pankaj in various films and television series, further expressing his admiration and love. The Dheer family held a pooja in Rishikesh following Pankaj's passing.

Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and his son, Nikitin Dheer, daughter-in-law Kratika Sengar, and granddaughter Devika. The film fraternity and fans alike have expressed their condolences and remembered Pankaj Dheer as a talented actor, mentor, and loving father.