Depressive symptoms were assessed in a group of chronic schizophrenic patients. Out of 75, thirty three (44%) patients were found to have a depressive illness when compared with non-depressed schizophrenics. Patients with depressed mood had significantly higher scores on brief psychiatric rating scale (BPRS) and negative symptoms scale. However, there were no significant differences between the two group in terms of cognitive deficits and extrapyramidal symptoms. The findings of the study are discussed in 'relation to the significance of depression in schizophrenic patients.