Mumbai – On Wednesday, Mumbai’s film community gathered for the funeral of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer. The 68‑year‑old, known worldwide for his role as Karna in the epic series “Mahabharat”, passed away in early October after a battle with cancer.
TV actress Dipika Kakkar, who is herself fighting cancer, arrived with her husband, actor Shoaib Ibrahim. The pair walked hand in hand through the crowd of fans and fellow actors. Dipika wore a simple white and navy‑blue ethnic suit and looked visibly emotional as she paid her final respects to the late actor. Shoaib, in a plain white shirt and jeans, stood by her side, offering comfort.
The funeral took place at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle West, a location that sees many film‑industry memorials. Pankaj’s son, actor Nikitin Dheer, and daughter‑in‑law Kratika Sengar, also attended. Bollywood stars such as Salman Khan, Arbaaz Khan and Kushal Tandon were present, underscoring the wide respect for the late actor.
Sidharth Malhotra joined the service in a simple white shirt and blue jeans, speaking with Nikitin Dheer and expressing condolences to the family. The mood was respectful and quiet, a fitting tribute to a man who shaped Indian television for decades.
CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association) released a statement on social media, mourning the loss of “Shri Pankaj Dheer ji,” former General Secretary of CINTAA and former Chairman of CAWT. The statement praised his “invaluable contributions” to Indian cinema and television.
Pankaj Dheer had worked with Dipika Kakkar and Shoaib Ibrahim in the hit TV drama “Sasural Simar Ka,” where they played a father‑daughter duo. Their on‑screen chemistry made the show a fan favorite. The funeral service was held at 4:30 pm, followed by cremation, with the family and friends coming together to celebrate a life devoted to the arts.
Source: ianslive
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