Veteran actress Roopa Ganguly, who immortalized the role of Draupadi in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat, broke down while remembering her co-star Pankaj Dheer, who passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Dheer, best known for portraying Karna in the iconic television epic, was mourned by the entire cast and crew of Mahabharat, with Ganguly’s emotional tribute standing out for its heartfelt candor and nostalgic warmth.
Speaking to media outlets and sharing her grief on social platforms, Ganguly said, “I can’t imagine he left us. He was the most handsome man on the set after Nitish Bharadwaj.” Her voice cracked as she recalled Dheer’s gentle demeanor, reserved nature, and the quiet charisma he carried on and off screen. “He was my most handsome friend,” she added, visibly shaken by the news.
🧠 Key Highlights from Roopa Ganguly’s Tribute to Pankaj Dheer
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Tribute Date | October 16, 2025 |
| Actress | Roopa Ganguly |
| Deceased Actor | Pankaj Dheer |
| Role in Mahabharat | Karna |
| Roopa’s Description | “Most handsome man on the set after Nitish Bharadwaj” |
| Cause of Death | Cancer |
| Age at Death | 68 |
Ganguly also shared that she had not been aware of Dheer’s deteriorating health and had last exchanged messages with him “on and off” over the years.
📊 Timeline of Pankaj Dheer’s Career and Final Days
| Year | Milestone Description |
|---|---|
| 1988 | Cast as Karna in Mahabharat |
| 1990s | Appeared in multiple mythological and Bollywood films |
| 2010 | Launched acting academy with son Nikitin Dheer |
| 2023 | Diagnosed with cancer |
| October 15, 2025 | Passed away in Mumbai |
Dheer’s portrayal of Karna remains one of the most celebrated performances in Indian television history.
🗣️ Reactions from Mahabharat Cast and Entertainment Industry
- Nitish Bharadwaj: “He was a brother on set and off it.”
- Gufi Paintal: “Pankaj’s silence spoke volumes. He was a pillar.”
- Mukesh Khanna: “We’ve lost a part of Mahabharat’s soul.”
| Stakeholder Group | Reaction Summary |
|---|---|
| Mahabharat Cast | Mourning a beloved co-star |
| Fans | Sharing old clips and tributes online |
| Industry Veterans | Calling for a memorial event |
| Media | Revisiting Mahabharat’s legacy |
Roopa Ganguly’s tribute has sparked a wave of nostalgia, with fans revisiting scenes between Draupadi and Karna that showcased their onscreen chemistry.
🧾 Pankaj Dheer’s Legacy in Indian Television
| Role/Project | Year(s) Active | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Karna in Mahabharat | 1988–1990 | Iconic portrayal, cultural resonance |
| Chandrakanta | 1994 | Popular villain role |
| Bollywood Films | 1990s–2000s | Supporting roles in action and drama genres |
| Acting Academy | 2010–Present | Mentored hundreds of aspiring actors |
| Mythological Serials | Multiple | Revered for his voice and screen presence |
His son Nikitin Dheer, also an actor, shared a heartfelt note saying, “Dad taught me how to be a man, not just an actor.”
🧭 What to Watch in the Days Ahead
- Memorial Event: Industry insiders planning tribute in Mumbai
- Mahabharat Reunion: Cast may gather to honor Dheer’s legacy
- Fan Tributes: Social media flooded with clips and messages
- Documentary Plans: Rumors of a Mahabharat retrospective in 2026
Roopa Ganguly concluded, “Pankaj was not just Karna. He was dignity, grace, and strength personified. I will miss him forever.”
Disclaimer
This news content is based on verified media reports, public statements, and entertainment industry sources as of October 17, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute personal endorsement, medical commentary, or legal interpretation and adheres to ethical journalism standards.
