Pankaj Dheer, Karna of Mahabharat, dies at 68

MUMBAI: Actor Pankaj Dheer, who played Karna in B R Chopra’s Mahabharat, died on Wednesday. He was 68. He was battling cancer for quite some time. Pankaj Dheer's role as Karna, one of the most memorable characters in the history of Indian television, made him a favorite of the audience.

He entered the acting industry in the 1980s with small roles, but it was Mahabharata that made him a popular actor.

While remaining in the shadow of the character Karnan, he also gained attention for his role as the antagonist King Shivdutt of Chunargarh, in the series 'Chandrakanta'. He acted in several television series like Chandrakanta, Badho Bahu, Zee Horror Show, Kanoon, and the series Sasural Simar Ka.

He also acted in films like Soldier, Andaz, Baadshah and Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge. He last acted in the series Dhruv Tara Samay Sadi Se Para in 2024. The last rites will be held this evening at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Santa Cruz, Mumbai.