Veteran film director Harmesh Malhotra, who had directed films like ''Nagina'' and ''Nigaahen'', died here last night following cardiac arrest, according to family sources.

He was 66 and is survivied by wife Manju and daughters Kajal Bannerjee and Payal Malhotra.

Mr Malhotra, who hailed from Khusab region in Pakistan, migrated to Agra after partition and, after his graduation, came to Mumbai to embark on a career in films.

His first movie was ''Beti,'' released in the early 70s, which starred Sanjay Khan and Nanda. He launched his own HM Productions in 1972 and directed the movie ''Gaddar'', his wife Manju Malhotra told.

Harmesh Malhotra will be remembered for his movie ''Nagina'', starring Rishi Kapoor, Sridevi and Amrish Puri, in which Sridevi played the title role. Later, its sequel ''Nigaahen'' was also released. He also directed ''Dulheraja'', starring Govinda.

Harmesh Maljotra had directed around fifteen films, in a career spanning over 30 years.