Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer passed away on Wednesday after battling cancer. He was 68 years old and starred in many TV shows and movies. The actor was famously known for portraying the character of Karn in the TV show Mahabharat. His funeral was attended by Salman Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Arbaaz Khan and others. Many Bollywood and TV celebrities took social media to mourn Dheer's demise.

Nitish Bharadwaj, who played the role of Krishna in Mahabharat, shared an emotional post on Instagram. He wrote, "We all must depart one day. But more importantly we must live in a way that the world will remember us fondly & respectfully. Team Mahabharat has lost yet another jewel- a sensitive rugged actor with a great sense of humor & a heart of gold. The 1 st angry young man of Indian heritage literature is gone. May his soul attain its SADGATI & Eternal Peace (sic)."

Veteran actor Anupam Kher tweeted, "Deeply saddened to know about my friend and fellow actor in many movies #PankajDheerDeath. He was a very jovial and a helpful person. May God rest his soul in peace and give his family and friends the strength to deal with this loss. Om Shanti!" Randeep Hooda tweeted, "Saddened to hear about the passing of #PankajDheer ji. A powerful performer and a dignified presence on and off screen. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti (sic)."

Sharing throwback pictures with 'dear friend' Dheer, Hema Malini said she is 'devastated'. The actress-turned-politician also stated that Dheer was determined to overcome his battle with cancer. "I have lost a very dear friend today and am totally devastated. Pankaj Dheer, always so affectionate, enthusiastic about everything, a talented actor who won audience hearts with his portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat, so full of life, has breathed his last. He passed away after a spunky fight with cancer which he was determined to overcome.

"To me, he was always so supportive, encouraging me in whatever I undertook and always by my side when I needed him. I will miss his constant support and presence in my life. My heart goes out in distress to his dear wife Anita ji who was the light of his life," Hema Malini added We at The Free Press Journal pray that his soul rests in peace.