A poignant video has emerged showing actor Nikitin Dheer consoling his mother outside their home as mourners gather to bid farewell to late actor Pankaj Dheer. The tearful moment captures a son’s quiet strength amid deep grief, and fans across India have expressed heartbreak over the visuals.
The Passing of a Screen Legend
Pankaj Dheer, best known for his iconic portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat, died after a long battle with cancer. His illness had reportedly worsened in recent weeks after a relapse, though he had previously undergone treatment and shown signs of recovery. He passed away in Mumbai at the age of 68.
His cremation was held at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle West, Mumbai. Visuals from the funeral have circulated widely, showing a heavy pall of sorrow around the Dheer family.
A Son’s Consolation in Public Grief
In one of the most touching moments from the ceremony, a video shows Nikitin Dheer, Pankaj Dheer’s son, wrapping his arms around his mother, Anita Dheer, and offering words of comfort. The pair are seen standing just outside their residence, surrounded by well-wishers and media cameras.
Nikitin appears deeply moved but composure remains in his voice and posture as he supports his mother, who struggles visibly under the weight of loss. The images resonate as a moment of raw emotion and familial love that many fans have called both heartbreaking and deeply human.
Tributes from Industry and Friends
Tributes poured in from Bollywood and television alike, honoring Pankaj Dheer’s legacy and the impact he had on those around him. Many remembered him not only as an actor but as a mentor and respected colleague.
Amit Bhargav, an actor, reflected on Dheer’s health in recent years, saying he had been ill before but seemed to recover. “I spoke to him a few months ago — he sounded well,” Bhargav remarked. “So his death is a shocking blow for all of us.”
Across social media, fans expressed condolences to the Dheer family. Many shared memes and clips of Pankaj’s performances, particularly as Karna, calling him unforgettable in appearance and voice.
A Life of Art, Strength, and Respect
Pankaj Dheer’s portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat cemented his place in the annals of Indian television. His commanding screen presence, dignified acting, and depth as an artist won him admiration across generations.
Beyond Mahabharat, he appeared in numerous films and serials, but it was his association with mythological television that left a lasting cultural impression. His calm persona off-screen matched his majestic roles on-screen, earning him respect not just within the industry but also among devoted viewers.
Inherited Resilience
Nikitin Dheer now carries both the grief and the legacy of his father. In the funeral footage, he embraces not just his mother’s pain but the responsibility of a public figure continuing a family tradition of artistry.
Though overwhelmed, his support for Anita Dheer reflects an inherited strength — a silent vow to uphold memory and honor. For many fans who grew up watching Pankaj Dheer, Nikitin’s gesture is a reminder that the ties between life, art, and family transcend screens.
Read: Pam St Clement Pays Tribute to On-Screen Husband Tony Caunter
The Void Left Behind
Pankaj Dheer’s loss leaves a void in the television world, especially among those who grew up watching Mahabharat. His departure is felt deeply — not just as a star fading, but as a person deeply loved by colleagues, family, and fans alike.
At his funeral, media and well-wishers gathered to pay respects. The scenes of grief and homage, anchored by his son’s compassionate embrace, underscored the impact of a life well lived.
The images of Nikitin consoling his mother will likely be remembered long after the news cycle passes, as a moment of pure humanity and devotion in times of sorrow. In those moments, grief, love, and family stand at the center — no scripts, no performances, just life.
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