Mahabharat’s Karna, veteran TV and movie actor Pankaj Dheer dies after battling cancer

Mahabharat's Karna, veteran TV and movie actor Pankaj Dheer dies after battling cancer

Edited By: Lakshmi Ranjith | Updated: Oct 15, 2025 13:48 IST

Actor Pankaj Dheer, popularly known for playing Karna in BR Chopra's Mahabharat, has passed away due to cancer. Dheer succumbed to complications from cancer after a prolonged fight against the disease. His family said that he was a fighter and seemed to be recovering a few months ago. However, the disease returned a few months ago, and his health reportedly became very poor. He also had to undergo a major surgery because of it. Various news reports confirmed the death, citing his family.

Mahabharat's Karna and Pankaj Dheer

The 1980s mythological epic series Mahabharat on Doordarshan featured many well-known actors, including Mukesh Khanna as Bhishma, Nitish Bhardwaj as Lord Krishna, Roopa Ganguly as Draupadi, and Puneet Issar as Duryodhana. But did you know that the actor who played the iconic role of Karna was first offered the role of Arjuna — which he refused because of one firm condition?

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