Mahabharat Icon Pankaj Dheer Who Played Karna Passes Away at 68
Iconic television actor Pankaj Dheer, renowned for his portrayal of Karna in B R Chopra’s epic series “Mahabharat”, has passed away at the age of 68. His death followed a prolonged battle with cancer, as confirmed by producer and close friend Ashoke Pandit. The tragic news was shared on the morning of his departure, and his cremation is set to occur later today.
Career Highlights of Pankaj Dheer
Pankaj Dheer was originally from Punjab and began his acting career in the 1980s. Initially, he appeared in supporting roles in various films. However, his breakthrough came in 1988 when he was cast as Karna in the television adaptation of the Hindu epic “Mahabharata”.
Roles and Achievements
- Mahabharat: Dheer’s performance as Karna solidified his status in the television industry.
- Chandrakanta: From 1994 to 1996, he starred as Shivdutt in this fantasy drama, enhancing his popularity.
- Film Appearances: He acted in notable films such as “Sadak,” “Sanam Bewafa,” and “Aashik Awara.”
- Television Soaps: In the late 2000s, he featured in several daily soaps, including “Teen Bahuraaniyaan” and “Sasural Simar Ka.”
Notable Film Contributions
Throughout his career, Pankaj Dheer worked alongside prominent actors and contributed to various successful films. Some of his significant works include:
- “Soldier” with Bobby Deol
- “Baadshah” featuring Shah Rukh Khan
- “Andaz” starring Akshay Kumar
- “Zameen” and “Tarzan” with Ajay Devgn
Legacy and Survivors
Pankaj Dheer leaves behind a loving family, including his wife Anita Dheer and their son Nikitin Dheer, who has also pursued a career in acting.
The loss of Pankaj Dheer marks a significant moment in the Indian television and film industry, as he was an influential figure whose talent will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
