Days after the loss of his father, veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, Nikitin Dheer has shared a deeply spiritual and introspective post on social media, focusing on the concept of relinquishing ‘pain’ and ‘pride’. Pankaj Dheer, celebrated for his impactful performances, succumbed to cancer on October 15 after a long and arduous fight.
Nikitin’s recent Instagram story featured an image of Goddess Kali’s feet, accompanied by the profound caption: “At her feet, I left my name, my pride, my pain, and she called me her own.” This evocative statement underscores his personal journey through grief and his search for spiritual comfort in the face of immense loss. It offers a raw and honest portrayal of his emotional state following his father’s passing.
His father, Pankaj Dheer, was a well-respected figure in the entertainment industry. His career included memorable roles in films like ‘Sanam Bewafa’ and ‘Baadshah’, and he was also a part of the popular TV series ‘Chandrakanta’ and ‘Sasural Simar Ka’. Beyond acting, he directed the film ‘My Father Godfather’ and founded the Abhinay Acting Academy, demonstrating his commitment to the craft and its development.
Interestingly, just hours before Pankaj Dheer’s passing, Nikitin had shared a message of acceptance, advising, “Whatever comes, Let it come. Whatever stays, Let it stay. Whatever goes, Let it go. As a Shiva Bhakt, say ‘Shivarpanam’ and move on! He’ll take care!” This suggests a pre-existing contemplation on life’s impermanence.
The industry bid farewell to Pankaj Dheer at a prayer meet held on October 17, which saw attendance from figures like Suresh Oberoi and Esha Deol. Nikitin, alongside his wife Kratika Sengar, was present to honor his father. Pankaj Dheer’s battle with cancer had been ongoing, with a recent relapse and subsequent surgery proving unsuccessful in the long term.