Pankaj Dheer, veteran TV and film actor known chiefly for his memorable portrayal of the character Karna in BR Chopra’s epic serial Mahabharat, died on October 15, 2025. He was 65 years old. This was confirmed by his close friend and fellow actor Amit Behl, who is also a member of the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA).

As per reports, Pankaj Dheer was fighting cancer for a while. Even when he first reacted to the treatment, the disease returned a few months ago, making him very sick. He had also had extensive surgery for his condition.

CINTAA released an official condolence stating the veteran actor’s demise:
With great sorrow and deep regret, we regret to inform you of the sad demise of our Trust’s former Chairman and CINTAA’s ex-Hon. General Secretary, Shri Pankaj Dheer ji, on 15th October 2025. Cremation today at 4:30 pm, beside Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai.

Pankaj Dheer achieved stardom with his intimidating acting as Karna in the late 1980s’ Mahabharat, a performance that gained him universal popularity and appreciation. Since then, he appeared in numerous successful films like Sanam Bewafa, Baadshah, and television series like Chandrakanta, Sasural Simar Ka, and Har Yug Mein Aayega Ek Arjun.

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In addition to television acting, Dheer also dabbled in direction and film-making. He directed the 2014 movie My Father Godfather and was the owner of the Abhinay Acting Academy, where he trained aspiring actors.

He leaves behind his wife, Anita Dheer, and son, actor Nikitin Dheer, famous for starring in Chennai Express and Shershaah. His death signifies an era coming to a close for Indian television and the silver screen.

#CINTAA & #CAWT mourn the loss of Shri Pankaj Dheer, former General Secretary of #CINTAA and former Chairman of #CAWT — a respected member of our fraternity whose invaluable contributions to Indian cinema and television will always be remembered.

Funeral today at 4:30 PM at… pic.twitter.com/kNTG4TTTVc

— CINTAA_Official (@CintaaOfficial) October 15, 2025

Following months of rumors, Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela’s eagerly anticipated romantic musical with director Anurag Basu now has an official title. The movie, which has been generating a consistent buzz since its announcement, is said to be titled Tu Meri Zindagi Hai and is likely to release in May 2026.

Surprisingly, the film was reportedly first under the banner of Aashiqui 3, the sequel to the legendary romantic franchise. Kartik Aaryan’s attachment had got fans excited, with people looking forward to watching him in a vintage, old-school love story. Post-the professional fallout between producers Mukesh Bhatt and Bhushan Kumar, plans for the movie changed. Rather than putting it on hold entirely, the producers opted to recreate the movie as an independent musical romance.

A source confirmed to Mid-Day, “The team was looking for a name that would create a sense of nostalgia, but wouldn’t involve any legal or creative hassles. Tu Meri Zindagi Hai seemed just right.” The title is said to have the same emotional lift as the Aashiqui films, yet leave Anurag Basu free to write an original script without the burden of franchise pressure.

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The movie is the first pairing of Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela, and one of the most eagerly awaited on-screen pairings of recent times. Kartik has a large following in the rom-com genre with his performances in Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, Pati Patni Aur Woh, and Satyaprem Ki Katha. Sreeleela, a new talent in the Telugu film industry, is making a big debut in Bollywood with this movie.

With Anurag Basu at the steering wheel, expectations are bound to be sky-high. With visually lush and emotionally textured films like Barfi! and Ludo, Basu is bound to infuse this love story with a distinctive storytelling approach. Expect soulful music as well, an important aspect of any romantic musical, with top composers being approached to create a timelessly memorable soundtrack.

With the progression of preparations, Tu Meri Zindagi Hai is turning out to be one of the largest romantic releases this year 2026. Kartik Aaryan and Sreeleela fans are waiting anxiously for more updates, including the movie’s announcement and first look. With its vintage-inspired title, top-line cast, and Anurag Basu’s direction, this film is sure to be a memorable love story on the silver screen.

Akshay Kumar has again been at the center of controversy after reports of him associating with the Hindi remake of Sankranthiki Vasthunam caught fire. Although early rumor mills had indicated that the superstar would be collaborating with producer Dil Raju for this much-hyped movie, latest reports have negated the news that Akshay is not involved in the remake.

A Pinkvilla report also confirmed the news and quoted one source as saying, “Akshay Kumar is not remaking Sankranthiki Vasthunam. There were rumors that the actor would be working with producer Dil Raju to remake the film in Hindi, and it would be directed by Anees Bazmee. But that’s not the case. The actor had seen the Venkatesh Daggubati-starrer a while ago, strictly as a cinema enthusiast, and has no plans to remake it.”. That notwithstanding, Akshay and Anees Bazmee are actually in the process of discussing a possible collaboration on another project.”

Interestingly, a report contrary to this by Times Now through OTTPlay had previously mentioned that Akshay was keen on doing the remake after watching the Telugu original. That report had said that Dil Raju would be producing the Hindi version and casting for the heroine was ongoing. But the latest clarification has settled all those rumors.

The Telugu original, featuring Venkatesh Daggubati and Aishwarya Rajesh, is about the kidnap of an Indian CEO of the world’s leading tech firm while on an India tour. A rescue mission is undertaken, put in the limelight YD Raju, a suspended cop, his wife Bhagyalakshmi, and his ex-girlfriend who all turn out to be important in ending the crisis. The movie’s engaging plot and emotional center made it a box-office hit, and a Hindi remake was expected with great hopes.

In the meantime, Akshay Kumar remains busy with a great roster of films. Last seen on screen was Jolly LLB 3 with Arshad Warsi, a courtroom drama that was much enjoyed by the audience. The actor also recently treated fans to a spine-tingling teaser of his next film Haiwaan.

Sharing a strong behind-the-scenes clip, Akshay wrote on Instagram, “Last schedule of #Haiwaan…what a journey it’s been. This character has pushed, shaped, and surprised me in so many ways.” Directed by Priyadarshan and also featuring Saif Ali Khan, the movie is Akshay’s first negative role after 18 years. His brooding and rugged first look has already caused huge excitement.

Also Read: Haiwaan’s Final Schedule Has Begun! Akshay Kumar Shares Exciting Update

Though fans may be disappointed that Akshay won’t act in the remake of Sankranthiki Vasthunam, his next projects hold much excitement for the coming months.

Wherever Orhan Awatramani, warmly referred to as Orry, and Urvashi Rautela appear together, everyone knows that they’re in for a fix of glamour, entertainment, and fun. Their latest outing in Mumbai was no different, as the couple turned heads and dazzled the red carpet with their playful chemistry and natural charm.

The actress was spotted looking elegant in a stunning red lehenga that dazzled with each step. With her outfit, coupled with a bright smile, Urvashi looked every bit of a queen. Adding a careless touch, she was spotted adjusting and flirtatiously turning around her dupatta, catching the cameras immediately. Standing right next to her was Orry, famous for his quirky yet chic fashion sense. This time, he opted for a sleek ivory Indo-western outfit that perfectly combined sophistication with trendsetting flair.

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As photographers rushed to capture their moments together, Orry and Urvashi posed confidently, exchanging laughs and exuding a lighthearted vibe. Their chemistry was undeniable. At one point, Orry was even heard politely asking the paparazzi, “You’ve got your pictures and videos, na? ” With a chorus of “yes” from both, they smiled sweetly and entered the venue.

Soon, photos and videos of their appearance started doing the rounds on social media, with fans going berserk and posting reactions aplenty. This isn’t the first time that the two have caused a stir with their playfulness. Last month in February, at Urvashi Rautela’s 31st birthday party, they enjoyed another viral moment. A video showed Orry dancing enthusiastically to Urvashi’s song “Dabidi Dibidi” from Daaku Maharaj while standing behind the DJ console. In a playful twist, Orry accidentally pushed Urvashi mid-groove, almost making her lose her balance. Urvashi, ever the sport, handled it with grace and laughter, while Orry quickly hugged her in apology.

Later, he shared the clip on Instagram with the caption, “First woman to be pushed by me,” sending fans into a tizzy. On the professional front, Urvashi Rautela has a busy line-up ahead. She features in Kasoor with Aftab Shivdasani and Jassie Gill and is also a part of the cast of Welcome To The Jungle, featuring Akshay Kumar. The production’s first schedule has wrapped, but the release date—originally pegged for December 20, 2025—has been pushed back. With her burgeoning career and Orry’s unparalleled skill at going viral for a moment, one thing’s for sure: wherever these two are, all eyes are on them.

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