Salman Khan attends last rites of Pankaj Dheer, consoles emotional son Nikitin Dheer

Salman Khan attends last rites of Pankaj Dheer, consoles emotional son Nikitin Dheer

Bollywood superstar Salman Khan was among the first to arrive at the funeral of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who passed away earlier today at the age of 68 after a long battle with cancer. The cremation took place in Mumbai, attended by family, close friends, and several members of the film industry who came together to pay their final respects to one of Indian television’s most respected figures.

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Pankaj Dheer, immortalised as Karna from B. R. Chopra’s Mahabharat, had been undergoing treatment for cancer for the past few years.

Sources close to the family revealed that his condition had worsened after a recent relapse. Despite multiple surgeries and medical efforts, he succumbed to the illness earlier today, leaving behind a legacy of memorable roles across film and television.

Also Read:  When Pankaj Dheer revealed Mahabharat producer B. R Chopra threw him out for refusing to shave moustache, "It was my big stupidity..."

Salman Khan, dressed in a simple olive-green shirt and jeans, arrived at the cremation ground surrounded by his security team. His presence reflected the deep bond he shared with the Dheer family. The actor was seen walking straight to Pankaj Dheer’s son, Nikitin Dheer, and embracing him as the two shared an emotional moment. Nikitin, visibly heartbroken, held on tightly as Salman consoled him, offering quiet support amid the grief-stricken crowd.

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The emotional hug between the two actors stood out as a poignant reminder of their long-standing friendship, which began years ago when Nikitin appeared alongside Salman in Dabangg 2 and later in Ready. Many attendees described Salman’s gesture as heartfelt and genuine, a mark of the deep respect he held for Pankaj Dheer.

Sidharth Malhotra and singer Mika Singh were also seen attending the final rites.

Also Read: When Pankaj Dheer revealed Mahabharat producer B. R Chopra threw him out for refusing to shave moustache, "It was my big stupidity..."

Known for his dignified screen presence and calm demeanour off-camera, Pankaj Dheer had acted in numerous TV shows and films, leaving behind an indelible mark on generations of viewers. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian television. As the industry mourns his loss, tributes continue to pour in from colleagues and fans who grew up watching his work.

Sidharth Malhotra too attended the final rites of the Pankaj Dheer

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