New Delhi: Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his role as ‘Karna’ in BR Chopra’s acclaimed TV series Mahabharata, passed away today at the age of 68 after a prolonged battle with cancer. His death has deeply affected both his family and fans.
In tribute to the actor, we share a story related to his son, Nikitin Dheer, and daughter-in-law, Kratika Sengar—a tale that highlights Dheer’s influence in their lives.
Pankaj Dheer’s son, Nikitin Dheer, received widespread recognition for his portrayal of Thangabali in the Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone film Chennai Express. Notably, it was Pankaj Dheer who introduced Nikitin to both the acting profession and eventual love.
The match was finalized when Pankaj Dheer was working on his first directorial project and invited Kratika, a notable TV actress known for her role in Jhansi Ki Rani, to audition. Impressed by her talent, Dheer selected her for the leading role in the film and immediately envisioned her as a suitable partner for his son. He discussed this with Kratika before approaching her parents.
In an interview with Pinkvilla, Kratika noted her strong bond with both Pankaj Dheer and Nikitin, which led to the development of their relationship. Nikitin remarked, “Kratika is a family-oriented girl who embodies the qualities I seek in a life partner: honesty, patience, and a strong personality.”
Nikitin and Kratika’s romance blossomed over time as they communicated while he was in South Africa and she was in Mumbai. Nikitin stated, “I felt the need to prove myself before marriage, but Kratika reassured me that life is always a mix of challenges and joys. I asked her if she was ready for the journey, and she affirmatively responded, marking a special moment for us.”
The couple was wed on September 3, 2014, just six months after their engagement. The ceremony was well-attended by various celebrities, including Hema Malini, Konkona Sen Sharma, and Gauahar Khan.
Since their marriage, Nikitin and Kratika welcomed their daughter, Devika Dheer, on May 12, 2022.
