Updated on: Oct 17, 2025 | 1:46 PM IST

The television industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 68. Best remembered for his unforgettable portrayal of Karn in B.R. Chopra’s iconic TV epic Mahabharat, Dheer’s passing has left a deep void in the hearts of his colleagues and fans alike. Among those grieving the loss is actor Gajendra Chauhan, who essayed the role of Yudhishthira in the same series.

Speaking about his long-time friend and co-star, Gajendra Chauhan recalled their bond that went far beyond the sets of Mahabharat. “He wasn’t just a friend or co-artiste, but a family member to us,” said the 69-year-old actor, his voice heavy with emotion.

The two worked closely for over three years during the making of Mahabharat, one of Indian television’s most celebrated shows, which originally aired between 1988 and 1990. “When I first saw him, I thought to myself, ‘He is such a good-looking man. He will take up all of our jobs,’” Gajendra reminisced with a gentle laugh. “But after a few minutes, I felt like we had known each other forever. That was his warmth — he had an instant connection with everyone.”

Gajendra also spoke about Pankaj Dheer’s strength and positivity even during his illness. The actor had been battling pancreatic cancer, but those close to him say he faced it with remarkable courage. “He used to tell us, ‘Don’t worry, I will overcome this,’” Gajendra shared. “Everyone thought he was a very serious person because of the roles he played, but in reality, he had the best sense of humour. Logon ke 100 punch aur unka ek punch bhari padta tha.”

The camaraderie between the Mahabharat cast members is often spoken about even decades later, and Dheer was at the heart of that bond. His colleagues frequently described him as a man of grace, discipline, and quiet strength — qualities that mirrored the character of Karn that he immortalized on screen.

As the entertainment fraternity continues to pay tribute, Gajendra Chauhan’s words serve as a poignant reminder of the personal relationships that endure behind the glamour and grand narratives of television. “He was more than just a performer. He was family,” Gajendra concluded softly.

Pankaj Dheer’s legacy lives on — not only through his memorable performances in Mahabharat, Badshah, and Saudagar, but also through the affection and respect he earned from those who worked with him.

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