Kiara Advani, who was leading the race to bag celebrated filmmaker Shankar’s upcoming pan-India film with Ram Charan, has finally added the high-profile project to her resume. A leading entertainment portal reports that the Kabir Singh (2019) actress has signed the multilingual film on the dotted line.
There is no update on as to when the untitled film will start rolling, but if sources are to be believed, Advani has inked a multi-film deal with Shankar. Apart from this pan-India film that she is headlining, the actress will also star in the official adaptation of Aparichit (2005), opposite Ranveer Singh.
“Kiara will be a part of both, RC 15 and Aparichit adaptation. While she is romantically paired alongside Ram Charan in one, the other film will mark her first-time collaboration with Ranveer Singh. The character details and shoot schedules have been kept under wraps. However, Shankar’s film with Ranveer Singh will go on floors sometime next year, only once the work on RC 15 is concluded,” a source close to the development informs the publication.
The source goes on to add that apart from the two aforementioned films, Advani might do one more project with the filmmaker. “It is essentially a deal to collaborate on three films over the next few years. While the first two will happen in a quick span, the third one might take some time,” the source adds.
Kiara Advani already has some exciting projects in her pocket. She next stars in the much-awaited horror-comedy film Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, alongside Kartik Aaryan. She has already shot for Dharma Productions’ Shershaah, while Jug Jugg Jeeyo with the same production house is nearing completion.
The actress also plays one of the two female leads in Shashank Khaitan’s next, co-starring Bhumi Pednekar and Vicky Kaushal. It is also a Dharma Productions venture. Ashutosh Gowariker’s Karram Kurram is also in the pipeline.
Keep visiting this space over and again for more updates and reveals from the world of entertainment.
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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