Veteran writer and filmmaker Ved Rahi, best known for directing Doordarshan’s much-loved television series Gul Gulshan Gulfaam, has died at the age of 93. The filmmaker passed away at his residence in Thane, Maharashtra, on Sunday morning, November 1.
Rahi is survived by his two daughters, Geetanjali and Poonam, and their families. His last rites were performed at the Kopari crematorium in Thane on Sunday afternoon.
His death marks the loss of a creative figure whose work connected Indian cinema, television and Dogri literature. Over several decades, Rahi built a body of work as a screenwriter, director and author, leaving behind contributions across different storytelling formats.
Sahitya Akademi Pays Tribute to Ved Rahi
The Sahitya Akademi expressed grief over Rahi’s demise and remembered his contribution to modern Dogri literature. In a social media tribute, the organisation described him as an eminent writer, thinker and filmmaker whose work would be remembered for generations.
The Akademi also highlighted his literary achievements, including the Sahitya Akademi Award he received in 1983 for his story collection Aale. He was also honoured with the Akademi’s Fellowship.
In its tribute, the organisation said, “Sahitya Akademi mourns the demise of eminent Dogri writer, thinker and filmmaker Ved Rahi Ji, a distinguished figure in modern Dogri literature.”
The recognition reflected another important dimension of Rahi’s career. Although television audiences remember him for his work behind the camera, his contribution to literature remained a significant part of his creative identity.
Ved Rahi’s Film Career as a Writer and Director
Before becoming known as a director, Ved Rahi worked as a screenwriter on more than 25 films. His writing credits included titles such as Yeh Raat Phir Na Aayegi, Beimaan, Aap Aaye Bahaar Aayi, Mome Ki Gudiya and Bezubaan.
He later moved into film direction, making films including Prem Parbat, Kali Ghata and Veer Savarkar. These projects formed an important part of his work in Indian cinema, alongside his writing and television assignments.
Some of his films, particularly Prem Parbat and Kali Ghata, are now difficult to find through readily available viewing options. Their limited availability also makes revisiting parts of his filmography challenging for audiences interested in exploring his work.
Gul Gulshan Gulfaam Remains a Defining Television Work
For many viewers, Ved Rahi’s name will remain closely associated with Gul Gulshan Gulfaam. The Doordarshan series became his best-known television work and remains a memorable part of the broadcaster’s programming history.
Rahi was active in television during the late 1980s and 1990s, when he worked on several Doordarshan programmes. Alongside Gul Gulshan Gulfaam, he also directed shows such as Meera and Rishtay.
His work across television and cinema reflected a career that moved between different forms of storytelling. While his films showcased his work as a screenwriter and director, television brought his storytelling to audiences in their homes.
A Lasting Contribution to Indian Storytelling and Dogri Literature
Ved Rahi’s career brought together cinema, television and literature. His screenwriting credits, directorial projects and recognised work in Dogri literature established him as a creative figure whose contributions extended beyond a single medium.
The Sahitya Akademi’s tribute also serves as a reminder of his literary legacy, particularly his award-winning collection Aale and his place in modern Dogri writing.
As audiences remember Gul Gulshan Gulfaam and revisit his work in films and literature, Ved Rahi leaves behind a body of storytelling that reached viewers and readers across generations.
