Mahabharat Star Pankaj Dheer Dies at 68 After Battling Cancer, Surviving On-Set Accidents

Pankaj Dheer, the acclaimed actor known for his portrayal of Karna in the epic Mahabharat, passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. While his death is a significant loss for the entertainment industry, Dheer's legacy as the iconic Karna will forever be etched in the hearts of audiences.

However, few were aware of the harrowing experiences Dheer endured while filming the legendary series. In a past interview, the actor revealed that he nearly lost his eyesight during a battle sequence with Arjun, played by Arjun Feroz Khan. A technical fault caused an arrow to jam into the corner of Dheer's eye, leading to a terrifying situation where he feared for his career. Fortunately, he was rushed to a nearby dispensary, where quick medical intervention saved his vision.

In another chilling on-set incident, Dheer's chariot broke apart during a war sequence, and the charioteer was gravely injured as the horses bolted toward a steep slope. Realizing the danger, Dheer leaped off the runaway chariot, injuring his knees but ultimately saving his life. "If I hadn't jumped, I would have fallen into the gorge," he recalled.

Despite these near-death experiences, Dheer remained dedicated to his craft, returning to the set within days to continue filming, even with his eye partially bandaged. His unwavering commitment and resilience in the face of adversity are a testament to his passion for his art and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.