Actress Hema Malini paid tribute to the loss of Pankaj Dheer, best known for portraying Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat.

For the unversed, the actor breathed his last in Mumbai on Wednesday (October 15) after a long battle with cancer.

She shared a series of throwback pictures of Dheer on social media, calling him a "dear friend” and expressing her heartbreak.

She wrote, “I have lost a very dear friend today and am totally devastated. Pankaj Dheer, always so affectionate, enthusiastic about everything, a talented actor who won audience hearts with his portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat, so full of life, has breathed his last.”

The veteran actress added that the late star was always supportive, both personally and professionally.

She mentioned, “To me, he was always so encouraging, by my side when I needed him. I will miss his constant presence. My heart goes out to his dear wife Anita ji who was the light of his life.”

Her daughter Esha Deol also paid homage for the departed soul, by posting a heartfelt note on Instagram.

She penned, “Deeply saddened to hear about the passing away of Pankaj uncle. A dear family friend & a wonderful human being always full of joy: Will miss you & those fun conversations we had followed by your laughter. May your soul rest in peace. Deepest condolences aunty, to @niketan.dheer.5 & the family. Om Shanti.”

Notably, the late actor was laid to rest in Vile Parle, yesterday in Mumbai, in attendence by industry peers including Salman Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Mukesh Rishi, Kushal Tandon, Dipika Kakar, and Shoaib Ibrahim.