Roopa Ganguly Remembers Her “Most Handsome Friend” Pankaj Dheer
Veteran actress Roopa Ganguly, who immortalized the role of Draupadi in B.R. Chopra’s timeless television epic Mahabharat (1988–1990), broke down in tears while remembering her co-star Pankaj Dheer. The actor, best known for portraying the noble warrior Karna, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 68 after a battle with cancer. The news of his death sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike.
Speaking to NDTV, Roopa Ganguly revealed that she received the heartbreaking news from actor Nitish Bharadwaj, who played Lord Krishna in the series. “I can’t imagine he left us at this age. I am so sorry to hear this. I don’t know what to say,” she said, visibly emotional.
“He Was The Most Handsome Man After Nitish Bharadwaj”
Roopa Ganguly fondly remembered Dheer’s elegance and calm demeanor during their Mahabharat days. “Pankaj Dheer was the most handsome man on the set after Nitish Bharadwaj,” she said, recalling how she often texted him calling him “my most handsome friend.” Despite being aware of his good looks and the admiration he received, Ganguly described him as “a very well-mannered, soft-spoken gentleman.”
In contrast to the more playful energy of their other co-stars, such as Puneet Issar (Duryodhan) and Firoz Khan (Arjun), Dheer stood out for his composed and reserved personality. “He was always graceful, never loud, never dramatic—both on and off the camera,” Ganguly added.
A Quiet Fighter Who Never Spoke About His Illness
When asked if she knew about his illness, Roopa Ganguly confessed that she had no idea Dheer was unwell. “I talked to him over a text probably a year ago. But he never mentioned anything about his health,” she said, breaking into tears.
Dheer had reportedly been battling cancer for some time but chose to keep his condition private. According to industry sources, he was undergoing treatment while continuing to stay in touch with close friends. His quiet dignity, even in illness, reflected the same stoic strength that defined his on-screen portrayal of Karna—one of the most complex and tragic figures in Indian mythology.
Co-Stars and Fans Pay Emotional Tributes
Pankaj Dheer’s Mahabharat co-star Feroz Khan, who played Arjun, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, posting a short video of the two friends together at an airport. The clip featured the caption: “Will miss you always, Pankaj.” Fans flooded the comments with condolences, remembering Dheer’s charisma and humility.
MLA Dipayan Chakraborty also took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his grief. “Deeply saddened by the demise of Pankaj Dheer. His remarkable performances in both Bollywood and Kannada cinema reflected his exceptional talent and versatility,” he wrote. “Praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul. May the Almighty grant strength and solace to his family, loved ones, and admirers in this moment of grief. Om Shanti.”
Deeply saddened by the demise of the renowned actor Pankaj Dheer, who earned immense love and respect through his iconic portrayal of Karna in the acclaimed television series Mahabharat. His remarkable performances in both Bollywood and kannada cinema reflected his exceptional… pic.twitter.com/NFE7qFPBRn
— Dipayan Chakraborty (@Dipayan_Silchar) October 15, 2025
Legacy Beyond Mahabharat
While Mahabharat made Pankaj Dheer a household name, his contributions to Indian cinema extended far beyond the epic saga. He appeared in several Hindi films, including Sadak, Soldier, Tahalka, and Baadshah, as well as in television serials like Chandrakanta and Badalte Rishton Ki Dastaan. His strong screen presence and versatility earned him respect across generations of viewers.
Dheer’s family, including his actor son Nikitin Dheer—known for roles in Chennai Express and Shershaah—is yet to issue an official statement. Reports suggest that the cremation will take place in Mumbai, where family, friends, and fans are expected to gather to pay their last respects.
An Irreplaceable Presence
For millions who grew up watching Mahabharat, Pankaj Dheer will forever remain the dignified Karna—honorable, loyal, and heroic. His co-stars’ heartfelt memories and the industry’s collective grief underscore not just the loss of an actor, but of a kind and grounded human being. As Roopa Ganguly poignantly summed up, “He was handsome, yes—but more than that, he was beautiful from the inside. I will miss him deeply.”
