Today is Thursday, October 16, 2025, and this article shares a detailed biography of the late Pankaj Dheer, an actor best known for his famous role as Karna in the Indian television epic "Mahabharat." Pankaj Dheer was great actor today on October 15, 2025. His life and career left a lasting mark on Indian television and cinema.
Early Life
Pankaj Dheer was born on November 9, 1956, in Punjab, India. He grew up in a family that was connected to the film industry. His father, C.L. Dheer, was a well-known film director. This early exposure to cinema influenced Pankaj’s interest in the film world. As a child, Pankaj wanted to become a film director like his father. However, fate had different plans, and he went on to become a celebrated actor instead. He completed his education in Mumbai and was a graduate by qualification. His early years were spent learning about films and acting, which prepared him for his future career very well.
Pankaj Dheer Age, Wikipedia, Biography, Net Worth, Wife, Son, Family
Career
Pankaj Dheer started his acting career in the early 1980s. His first movie was "Sookha," released in 1983. Though he initially wanted to work behind the camera as a director, he soon found success in front of the camera as well. He acted in several movies, taking on supporting roles in films such as "Sadak," "Baadshah," "Soldier," and "Sanam Bewafa."
However, it was television where Pankaj Dheer gained his biggest fame. The 1988 television series "Mahabharat" changed his life. The show was a major hit, and Pankaj’s role as Karna, a tragic hero from the Indian epic, made him a household name. Interestingly, Pankaj was first considered for the role of Arjuna but later was cast as Karna after some creative decisions. This role defined his career and earned him immense respect from viewers and critics alike.
Career Highlights
Pankaj Dheer's portrayal of Karna in "Mahabharat" was powerful and deep. His acting brought the character’s strength, loyalty, and pain to life. So well-known was his image that many textbooks used his pictures as a reference for Karna. Statues of Karna in different parts of India, including Karnal and Bastar, were even modeled in his likeness. Devotees worshipped these statues, showing how much impact his acting had beyond TV.
Apart from "Mahabharat," Pankaj appeared in many other TV serials like "Chandrakanta," "The Great Maratha," "Yug," and "Badho Bahu." He showed his versatility by playing different types of roles in mythological, historical, and modern stories. Besides TV, his work in films like "Ikke Pe Ikka," "Sadda Muqaddar," and "Taarzan: The Wonder Car" added variety to his career.
Pankaj also worked as a director. In 2014, he directed a film called "My Father Godfather," showing his skills behind the camera as well. He was not only an actor but also a trained film director and writer, which highlighted his deep love for filmmaking.
Personal Life
Pankaj Dheer was married to Anita Dheer, a well-known costume designer in the Bollywood industry. They got married in 1976 and stayed together until his death in 2025. Anita designed costumes for many films, such as "Victoria No. 203: Diamonds Are Forever" and "Ikke Pe Ikka." The couple had two children, a son named Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor, and a daughter named Nitika Shah.
Besides acting, Pankaj was a family man who balanced his professional and personal life well. He also had hobbies like horse riding and traveling, which he enjoyed outside of work.
Legacy And Impact
Pankaj Dheer’s legacy in Indian television is very strong. His role as Karna is remembered as one of the most iconic in Indian TV history. He faced many challenges during the shooting of "Mahabharat," such as wearing heavy costumes and witnessing dangerous accidents on set, but his dedication to the role never wavered. His portrayal left a lasting emotional impact on viewers.
He established a shooting studio called Visage Studioz in Mumbai with his brother Satluj Dheer and also opened the Abbhinnay Acting Academy in 2010, which helped many young actors learn their craft.
Pankaj acted in more than 40 films and television series during his career. His presence on screen and behind the scenes made him a respected figure in the Indian entertainment world. His work will be remembered for many years to come.
Conclusion
Pankaj Dheer was more than just an actor. He was a dedicated artist who loved the world of film and television deeply. From a film director’s son with dreams of filmmaking to a beloved television star known across India, his journey was remarkable. His unforgettable portrayal of Karna in "Mahabharat" made a deep connection with audiences and created a place for him in Indian cultural history. Though he passed away on October 15, 2025, his work continues to inspire actors and fans alike.
This day, October 16, 2025, marks a moment to remember and honor the life and career of Pankaj Dheer, a true legend in Indian acting. His story shows how passion, talent, and perseverance can create a timeless legacy for generations to see and appreciate.