'Jab Jab Phool Khile' writer Brij Katyal passes away

Veteran film writer Brij Katyal, who penned the story of Shashi Kapoor-Nanda hit "Jab Jab Phool Khile", passed away Thursday afternoon at a hospice in suburban Bandra.

According to scribe-director and his close associate, Anusha Srinivasan Iyer, Katyal was battling with cancer.

"He was suffering from rectal cancer and was admitted to Shanti Avedana Ashram, where he died in the afternoon. He was around 85-86 years old," Iyer told PTI.

"I had learnt the art of writing from him. It's a great loss," she added.

One of the most accomplished writers of the film industry, Katyal also has writing credits to his name in many TV serials such as "Dillagi", "Saans" and "Pal Chhin", both directed by Neena Gupta.

His stint in movies also include "Ajooba" and "Yeh Raat Phir Na Aayegi", among others.

Katyal is survived by an adopted son.

The last rites of the writer will take place at his Khandala residence.