Bollywood’s “Dream Girl” Hema Malini turned 77 on October 16, but this year her birthday was marked by deep sorrow. The veteran actress lost her close friend and actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his iconic role as Karna in Mahabharat. Pankaj passed away on October 15 after battling cancer, leaving the entire film and television fraternity in shock.

Hema Malini Remembers Pankaj Dheer

A day after his passing, Hema Malini paid an emotional tribute to Pankaj Dheer on X (formerly Twitter), sharing two pictures with him. In her heartfelt note, she wrote, “I have lost a very dear friend today and am completely heartbroken. Pankaj Dheer, always so affectionate, so enthusiastic about everything, a talented actor who won audience hearts with his portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat, has breathed his last. He passed away after a courageous fight with cancer.”

“He Was Always There for Me”

Recalling their long-standing friendship, Hema expressed how much Pankaj meant to her personally and professionally. “To me, he was always incredibly supportive, encouraging me in everything I did, and always there for me whenever I needed him. I will miss his constant support and presence in my life,” she wrote. She also extended her condolences to his wife, Anita Dheer, describing her as “the light of his life.”

Hema Malini’s Ill-Fated Birthday

Hema Malini, born on October 16, 1948, in Tamil Nadu, turned 77 this year. Known for her grace, beauty, and stellar performances in films like Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta, and Dream Girl, she remains one of Bollywood’s most admired icons. However, what should have been a day of celebration turned into one of heartbreak, as she mourned the loss of a dear friend on the eve of her birthday.