Filmmakers Farah Khan and Rohit Shetty have teamed up to make an action comedy which is expected to roll soon. The film will be directed by Farah, while Rohit will produce it under his moviemaking banner, Rohit Shetty Picturez.
The latest we hear that Deepika Padukone, who started her acting career with Farah Khan’s hit film Om Shanti Om (2007) and later appeared in Rohit Shetty’s blockbuster Chennai Express (2013), might play the female lead in the untitled project as she is the first choice of both the makers.
Since Padukone has worked with both the directors before, chances are high that she might give her nod to the big-ticket film. Talking about the male lead, Farah and Rohit are yet to finalize who will headline the cast.
Meanwhile, Deepika Padukone is presently busy preparing for her next film Chhapaak. To be helmed by Raazi (2018) fame Meghna Gulzar, the movie is a biopic which sees Padukone playing the character of acid attack survivor Laxmi Agarwal.
Chhapaak starts rolling from the first week of March.
Pankaj Dheer, famed for playing Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, dies after a battle with cancer.
Actor also appeared in films like Sanam Bewafa and TV shows including Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka.
Remembered for his cultural impact, with temples and statues dedicated to his portrayal of Karna.
Beloved for portraying karna
Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, celebrated for his role as the warrior Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, passed away on 15 October 2025 at the age of 68. The news was confirmed by his friend and colleague Amit Behl as well as CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association), which issued a statement expressing profound grief.
According to sources, Dheer had been battling cancer for some time. Despite undergoing major surgery and fighting the disease, it relapsed a few months ago, leaving him extremely unwell. His cremation was held on the same day at Vile Parle (W), Mumbai.
A versatile career in film and television
Beyond Mahabharat, Dheer appeared in films such as Sanam Bewafa and Baadshah, and TV shows including Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka. He also worked as a director, helming the film My Father Godfather, and founded the Abhinay Acting Academy, mentoring aspiring actors.
Dheer’s portrayal of Karna left a lasting impression on audiences, making him one of Indian television’s most recognisable figures from the 1980s.
Cultural legacy and devotion
In interviews, Dheer spoke about the enduring popularity of his character, noting that statues and temples were built in his name. He revealed that he is worshipped in two Karna Mandirs, one in Karnal and another in Bastar, where an eight-foot statue honours his character.
He reflected: “People have loved me and adored me over the years. Even in the history books of schools, if they have a reference to Karna, they have my picture there. So, as long as these books are printed, I will always be their reference as Karna.”
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son, actor Nikitin Dheer. His work continues to influence Indian television and the cultural memory of the Mahabharat epic.
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