New Delhi, Oct. 15 -- Television star Pankaj Dheer, known for playing Karna in BR Chopra's Mahabharat and King Shivdutt in fantasy drama Chandrakanta, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, at the age of 68 after a long battle with cancer.

"He passed away due to cancer this morning. He had been in and out of hospital in the past months," producer and friend Ashoke Pandit told PTI.

According to media reports, his cancer had relapsed two years ago, after undergoing a major surgery the first time. The cremation will be held later in the day.

Pankaj Dheer is survived by wife Anita Dheer and son Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor.

A Punjab native, Pankaj Dheer began as an actor in the 1980s, featuring in minor roles in many movies. His big...