PM Narendra Modi pens heartfelt condolence letter to Pankaj Dheer’s family; Son Nikitin Dheer expresses gratitude

Pankaj Dheer family gets a note from PM Modi

The family of the late veteran actor Pankaj Dheer received a heartfelt letter of condolence from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who acknowledged his outstanding contributions to Indian television and film and expressed his profound sadness over his passing.

The letter honours Dheer's remarkable career and the legacy he established through his performances and mentoring over many years, and it is addressed to the late actor's wife, Anita Dheer.

Sharing the letter on Instagram, Pankaj Dheer’s son and actor Nikitin Dheer expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister. Posting the image of the official letter, dated 18 October 2025 and bearing the Prime Minister’s signature, Nikitin wrote:

“श्री प्रधान मंत्री जी, अपने शब्दों से मेरे पिता को सम्मानित करने के लिए धन्यवाद.”

(Honourable Prime Minister, thank you for honouring my father with your words.)

In his message, PM Modi fondly remembered Pankaj Dheer’s artistic excellence, humility, and the impact of his iconic performances. He wrote that he was deeply saddened by the news of Dheer’s passing and extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

The Prime Minister’s letter read:

“अपने सहज अभिनय, गरिमामय व्यक्तित्व और उत्कृष्ट कला-प्रदर्शन से श्री पंकज धीर जी ने फिल्म और टेलीविजन जगत में अमिट छाप छोड़ी है. ‘महाभारत’ में उनके द्वारा निभाया गया ‘कर्ण’ का किरदार आज भी लोगों के हृदय में जीवित है.”

(With his effortless acting, dignified personality, and outstanding artistry, Shri Pankaj Dheer left an indelible mark on the world of film and television. His portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat continues to live in the hearts of people even today)

He went on to praise the late actor’s influence beyond the screen, writing:

“सरल व स्नेही स्वभाव के श्री पंकज धीर जी ने कला के क्षेत्र में नई पीढ़ी के कलाकारों का निरंतर मार्गदर्शन किया. उनका देहावसान फिल्म व टेलीविजन जगत के लिए एक अपूरणीय क्षति है.”

(With his gentle and affectionate nature, Shri Pankaj Dheer constantly guided the new generation of artists in the field of art. His passing is an irreparable loss to the film and television industry.)

Concluding his message, the Prime Minister added:

“मैं ईश्वर से प्रार्थना करता हूं कि वह श्री पंकज धीर जी के शोक संतप्त परिजनों व शुभचिंतकों को यह दुःख सहन करने की शक्ति और धैर्य प्रदान करें. ॐ शांति!”

(I pray to God to grant Shri Pankaj Dheer’s grieving family members and well-wishers the strength and patience to bear this sorrow. Om Shanti!)

The Prime Minister’s heartfelt tribute struck a chord with fans and colleagues of the late actor, who is best remembered for his legendary portrayal of Karna in B. R. Chopra’s Mahabharat — a performance that continues to live in the hearts of millions.

Pankaj Dheer’s versatility also shone through films like Saugandh, Baadshah, and Sadak, which cemented his reputation as one of the industry’s most respected performers.

Also Read: Who is Pankaj Dheer’s son Nikitin Dheer? The Sooryavanshi actor carrying forward his father’s legacy

The veteran actor passed away on 15 October after a prolonged battle with cancer. His son, Nikitin Dheer, who has been mourning privately, opened up for the first time earlier today.

After immersing his father’s ashes in the Ganga, Nikitin shared a deeply emotional post on Instagram — a video montage of cherished memories with his late father. In his caption, he wrote:

“I am not the best at expressing my feelings.. But I shall try.. It’s said, the only thing that’s guaranteed upon birth is death.. We all know it, accept it, believe it, but when one loses someone who is an essential aspect of one’s existence, a lot of questions arise.”