When Pankaj Dheer called Salman Khan 'Bauhat Khoobsurat Aadmi', said, "mere saamne Bandra mein badha hua hai wo..."

When Pankaj Dheer called Salman Khan 'Bauhat Khoobsurat Aadmi', said, "mere saamne Bandra mein badha hua hai wo..."

Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his iconic role as Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat (1988–1990), passed away on October 15 at the age of 68 to cancer. His death has left a deep void in the film and television industry, where he was admired not only for his strong screen presence but also for his humility and warmth off-screen.

Known for his memorable performances in films like Baadshah, Tahalka, Saugandh, and popular TV shows, Pankaj Dheer was respected by several generations of actors. Tributes have poured in from fans, co-stars, and filmmakers who remember him as a disciplined professional and a generous human being.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lehren (@lehrentv)

Story continues below Advertisement

Remove Ad

In one of his old interviews with Lehren TV, Pankaj Dheer had fondly spoken about Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. His words now resurface as a reminder of his affection and admiration for the actor he had known since Salman’s early days in Bandra.

“Salman mere saamne ka bachcha hai,” Pankaj Dheer said, recalling with a smile how he’d seen the young Salman grow up. “Bandra mein hamare saamne chhote-chhote hua karte the, cricket khelte the toh ball-ball laate the. Yeh uska bhai.”

He remembered those carefree days fondly, when no one could have imagined that the same boy would go on to become one of India’s biggest film stars.

“Ab kahne ka matlab hai, kaun us waqt sochta tha ki yeh Salman Khan itna bada hero ho jaayega,” he said. “Salman se badhiya aadmi hai nahi industry mein koi. Bahut khoobsurat aadmi hai, uske liye toh koi shabd nahi mere paas.”

Pankaj Dheer went on to praise Salman Khan’s generous and caring nature, describing him as someone with a rare heart. “Main jab bhi milta hoon, main toh gale se laga leta hoon usko. Kaam kare na kare, wo baat doosri hai, lekin waisa ladka hona bahut mushkil hai. Jo apni family ke liye sab kuch nichaavar kar de aur us tarah bada dil rakhta ho, bahut hi badhiya insaan hai.”

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

The way Pankaj Dheer spoke about Salman reflected his deep respect for him as a person, not just a star. He wasn’t talking about fame or success but about character—about kindness, loyalty, and family values. His words painted a picture of a genuine bond that had lasted decades, one built on shared memories and mutual admiration.

“Salman Khan industry mein sabse badhiya aur khoobsurat aadmi hain, jinka koi muqabla nahi,” Pankaj Dheer had said with conviction. “Unhone apni family ke liye sab kuch nichaavar kar diya hai. Wo ek alag kisam ke insaan hain.”

As fans mourn the passing of Pankaj Dheer, this heartfelt memory serves as a touching reminder of the simplicity and sincerity that defined him. He may have played powerful roles on screen, but off-screen, he remained grounded, full of warmth, and ever ready to celebrate the goodness in others—just like he did with Salman Khan.