Legendary Music Composer Deva Passes Away at 75 in Chennai
Veteran South Indian music composer and singer Deva, popularly known as 'Thenisai Thendral', has passed away at the age of 75. He breathed his last at a hospital in Chennai following health-related complications. The news of his demise has left the entire film industry and millions of music lovers in deep grief.
Born as Devanesan Chockalingam in Mylapore, Chennai, Deva is widely credited for popularizing the traditional 'Gaana' genre of music within mainstream Tamil cinema. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he composed iconic soundtracks for over 400 films across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam languages.
An Illustrious Career Defining Decades of Cinema
During the late 1980s and 1990s, Deva's compositions dominated the South Indian music charts. His collaborations with leading filmmakers and superstars resulted in timeless blockbusters. Some of his most celebrated works include Rajinikanth's massive hits 'Annamalai' and 'Basha', as well as popular soundtracks like 'Aasai', 'Kadhal Kottai', 'Nerrukku Ner', 'Kushi', and 'Valli'.
Apart from energetic folk-based numbers that became his signature style, Deva also composed soulful romantic melodies and devotional songs, showcasing his immense versatility across different musical genres.
Film Fraternity and Leaders Pay Last Respects
Superstars Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan expressed deep sorrow over his demise. Rajinikanth visited the composer's residence to pay his final respects, recalling his wonderful personality. Kamal Haasan also shared an emotional tribute remembering their wonderful days working together in films like 'Avvai Shanmugi' and 'Panchathantiram'.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay visited Deva's family to offer condolences and announced that the legendary musician's last rites would be performed with full state honors. Former Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin also paid their tributes at his residence.
Though Deva is no longer with us, his timeless melodies and immense contribution to cinema will continue to live on in the hearts of music lovers for generations to come.
