RIP Karna: 'Mahabharat' Actor Pankaj Dheer Passes Away at 68 After Cancer Battle!
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The world of Indian television is mourning the loss of a legend. Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, immortalized by his iconic portrayal of the noble warrior Karna in B.R. Chopra's 'Mahabharat' (1988), has passed away in Mumbai at the age of 68. The actor succumbed to a prolonged battle with cancer, his family and close industry colleagues confirmed on Wednesday.
Dheer's powerful screen presence and distinct dialogue delivery made his version of Suryaputra Karna one of the most revered characters in Indian mythology, a role that defined his remarkable career spanning over four decades.
A Warrior’s Final Battle: Demise Confirmed
The news of Pankaj Dheer's demise was confirmed by actor and close friend Amit Behl, as well as producer Ashoke Pandit.
- Cause of Death: Close associates confirmed that the actor had been battling cancer for some time. Though he had recovered from an earlier bout, the illness reportedly relapsed in recent months.
- Family Survives: Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and his son, actor Nikitin Dheer (known for films like Chennai Express and Shershaah). His daughter-in-law is television actress Kratika Sengar.
- Industry Tribute: The Cine & TV Artistes' Association (CINTAA) also released a statement, confirming the passing of their former Hon. General Secretary and Trustee, acknowledging the huge loss to the industry.
The Unforgettable Legacy of Karna
While Pankaj Dheer's career included roles in dozens of films like Soldier and Baadshah, and popular TV shows like Chandrakanta (as King Shiv Dutt), it was his performance in 'Mahabharat' that cemented his legendary status.
His dignified and restrained performance of Karna resonated deeply with audiences, turning him into a cultural icon. The deep connection fans felt to his portrayal is evident in several extraordinary facts:
- Worship in Temples: Dheer had previously shared that statues modeled after his look as Karna are worshipped in temples in parts of India, including Karnal and Bastar.
- Textbook Reference: His image has reportedly been used in some school history books as a reference for the mythical warrior.
The veteran actor had often expressed his dedication to the role, refusing offers to play the part in other remakes of the epic, stating he didn't want to confuse his fans or disrespect their love for his original performance.
The entertainment industry and his legion of fans are now paying heartfelt tributes to the great artist who gave one of Indian television's most memorable and enduring characters.
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