B Jaya (54), Tollywood's dynamic lady director, passed away at a private hospital in Hyderabad on Thursday around 9:20pm. She had been suffering from a heart ailment.

Beginning her career as a journalist, Jaya went on to wear many hats, and made sensible films like 'Chantigadu' and 'Lovely' as a director.

As the director of films like ‘Gundamma Gari Manavadu’ and others, Jaya stood as an inspiration for women to make a mark in the male-dominated film industry. She not only came up with message-driven storylines but also introduced fresh talent to the industry. Being a post-graduate in English and Psychology, she was a thinking filmmaker.

Her husband, B A Raju, is a star PRO in Tollywood and a producer.

In her demise, Tollywood has lost a passionate woman director and a personality whom many looked up to for motivation. May she attain 'Sadgati'. We at IndiaGlitz offer our sincerest condolences to her bereaved family.