Cuttack: Veteran lyricist of Odia cine industry Gurukrushna Goswami passed away following protracted illness this morning.

Goswami breathed his last at his residence at Shivaji Nagar in Cuttack. He was 85. He is survived by wife, two sons and two daughter-in-laws.

Born on May 6, 1934 at Nuagaon in Baripada town of Mayurbhanj district, Goswami was associated with Odia music industry over six decades. He was a script writer, lyricist and music director.

He made his debut as the lyricist in Ollywood in the film 'Maa' released in 1958. The songs in the films including 'Arundhanti', 'Suryamukhi', 'Kiye Kahar', 'Gapa Helebi Sata', 'Jeban Saathi', 'Agni Pariksha', 'Samay', 'Priyatama', 'Ranabhumi' and 'Pathara Khasuchi Bada Deulu' are the most popular lyrics ever in the industry. He had also penned two films -- 'Arundhanti' and 'Suryamukhi'.

The melodious songs including 'Phulei rani Saja Phula', 'Mu je janena kaha baata' 'Ye banara chhai', Sei chuna chuna tara phulei', 'Antara kande bahare hase mu' and 'Abhimani bandhure' written by Goswami are the evergreen songs in the film industry.

Goswami had received the Best Lyricist award in 1996, Bhakta Kabi Salabeg award and Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi (OSNA) Award in the year 2000 for his immense contribution to Odia music industry.

He was the All India Radio (AIR) approved music director.

Entire cine industry was saddened by the demise of great lyricist.