In a poignant moment that highlighted the deep bonds within Bollywood, superstar Salman Khan attended veteran actor Pankaj Dheer‘s last rites in Mumbai on October 15, 2025. The emotional farewell brought together numerous film and television personalities to bid adieu to one of Indian cinema’s most respected figures. Here’s a tribute to Pankaj Dheer’s remarkable legacy and the enduring friendship he shared with Salman Khan.
A Life Remembered: Pankaj Dheer’s Cinematic Journey
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Career Highlight | Played Karna in B.R. Chopra’s legendary Mahabharat |
| Industry Involvement | Honorary General Secretary & Trust Chairman of CINTAA |
| Notable Films | Sanam Bewafa (1991), Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge (2002) |
| Last Rites Location | Pawan Hans Crematorium, Santacruz, Mumbai |
| Ceremony Time | 4 PM, October 15, 2025 |
| Age at Passing | 68 years old |
The Legacy of a Legend
Pankaj Dheer was renowned for his iconic role as Karna in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat—a performance that etched itself into the hearts of millions across generations. Beyond his television fame, he worked in numerous films and was deeply respected in the acting community. His contributions extended beyond the screen, as he served as Honorary General Secretary and later chairman of CINTAA, demonstrating his commitment to the welfare of fellow artistes.
Salman Khan’s Emotional Tribute
Dressed in a simple olive-green shirt, Salman Khan arrived at the cremation grounds looking visibly solemn. The Bollywood superstar was captured comforting Pankaj Dheer’s son Nikitin Dheer with a warm hug during the emotionally charged moment—a gesture that spoke volumes about their long-standing family connection.
Pankaj Dheer had often recalled fondly watching Salman grow up in the streets of Bandra, playing cricket with his brothers before he became one of cinema’s biggest megastars. Their bond transcended the typical industry relationships, rooted in genuine affection and shared memories spanning decades.
A Friendship Forged Over Decades
The friendship between Salman Khan and Pankaj Dheer was well-documented. The veteran actor had previously spoken about working with Salman in films like Sanam Bewafa (1991) and Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge (2002). In an interview with Lehren Retro, Pankaj had expressed his admiration, saying, “There is no better human being than Salman in the film industry.”
Pankaj also highlighted Salman’s generosity and unwavering dedication to his family, noting that his humility remained unchanged despite achieving superstar status. This mutual respect and genuine affection was evident in Salman’s heartfelt gesture at the cremation grounds.
Industry Pays Respects
The funeral was attended by notable personalities including Mukesh Rishi, Sidharth Malhotra, and Hema Malini, along with members of CINTAA, underscoring Pankaj Dheer’s respected position in the entertainment community. His passing marked the end of an era for those who grew up watching Mahabharat.
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Pankaj Dheer’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and audiences alike. His contributions to Indian entertainment remain timeless, and his genuine relationships within the industry stand as a testament to his character and warmth. Rest in peace, Karna.
FAQs
1. What was Pankaj Dheer’s most famous role?
Pankaj Dheer is best known for playing Karna in B.R. Chopra’s iconic television series Mahabharat, which aired in the 1980s. This role made him a household name and remains his most celebrated performance. He also appeared in several Bollywood films throughout his career, but his Mahabharat role remains etched in popular culture and is remembered fondly by audiences across generations.
2. How long did Pankaj Dheer work in the entertainment industry?
Pankaj Dheer had a long and distinguished career spanning several decades. Beyond acting, he was actively involved with CINTAA (Cine and TV Artistes’ Association), where he served as Honorary General Secretary and later as chairman of its trust. His commitment to both his craft and the welfare of fellow artistes demonstrates his deep-rooted dedication to Indian cinema and television.
