Mumbai Oct 15 (NationPress) The news of veteran Bollywood and television actor Pankaj Dheer’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout the nation. His son Nikitin Dheer, who has yet to formally confirm his father's demise on social media, shared a poignant post about life just hours before Pankaj's death.

Fans have drawn connections between this post and his father's passing, highlighting the eerie irony. Nikitin's post featured a mythological character paired with a profound quote discussing the struggles of life. The caption reflected themes of acceptance and faith, stating, “Whatever comes, let it come. Whatever stays, let it stay. Whatever goes, let it go. As a Shiva Bhakt, say 'Shivarpanam' and move on! He’ll take care! – very hard to do –”

This post was shared just prior to Pankaj Dheer's death. Although the precise cause of his passing remains unclear, media reports indicate that the 68-year-old actor had been battling cancer for an extended period. Pankaj Dheer was a revered figure in Indian cinema and television, most famously recognized for his role as “Karn” in the legendary TV series “Mahabharat”.

Dheer’s co-star Arjun Feroz Khan, who portrayed Arjuna in “Mahabharat”, expressed his grief on social media, writing, “Gentleman!!! Bids goodbye (teary-eyed emoji) will miss you PD (broken heart emoji). Stay blessed. (Sparkle emojis)” Khan also shared a photo with the late actor. Reports suggest that Pankaj's cancer had relapsed a few months prior, and he had been in poor health since then, undergoing major surgery as part of his treatment.

President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, Ashoke Pandit, took to social media to express his sorrow, stating, “Shocked to know about the sad demise of our dear friend and a brilliant actor, Pankaj Dheer. A great human being. Huge loss to the industry. Heartfelt condolences to the family. Om Shanti (folded hands emoji)” He also noted that the final rites will take place at Pawan Hans cremation ground, S.V. Road, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai.

Reflecting on his illustrious career, Pankaj Dheer became widely known for his portrayal of Karn in B. R. Chopra’s 1988 epic TV series, “Mahabharat”, and later starred in “Dastak” in 1993, alongside Shagufta Ali and Sameer Kakkar. He also appeared in several Bollywood films, including notable roles in Bobby Deol's “Soldier” and Abhishek Bachchan's “Zameen”.

His most recent appearance was in the sci-fi fantasy romantic drama series “Dhruv Tara Samay Sadi Se Pare”, featuring Ishaan Dhawan and Riya Sharma.

Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife Aneeta, actor son Nikitin Dheer, and daughter-in-law Kratika Sengar, who is also an actress. He leaves behind a 3-year-old granddaughter, Devika.