Lucknow, Oct 31 (IANS): Eminent satirist and author of humour pieces K.P. Saxena died Thursday at a private hospital in the Uttar Pradesh capital. He was 78.

Saxena, known for his wit and humour, was suffering from oral cancer for the last one year. He contributed to Bollywood as well, contributing to the scripts of Aamir Khan-starrer "Lagaan" and "Hulchul", Hrithik Roshan's "Jodha Akhbar" and Shahrukh Khan's "Swades".

He rose to prominence with his contribution to the famous serial on Doordarshan "Biwi Natiyon waali".

Saxena was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2000.

His articles and columns were widely published. He had migrated to Lucknow from Bareilly, his birthplace, in the 1950s.

Both actor Aaamir Khan and director Ashutosh Gowarikar had, two months ago, enquired after the health of the ailing Saxena, family sources told IANS.

Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav expressed sorrow over the passing away of Saxena, and said his contribution to literature was immense.