Latest news with #Ilaiyaraaja
Hans India
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Ilaiyaraaja's blessings elevate ‘Shashtipoorthi'
The team of Shashtipoorthi, a recently released film that is earning appreciation from audiences, paid a heartfelt tribute to music maestro Ilaiyaraaja on his birthday. The team, including actors Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Rupeysh, director Pavan Prabha, and others, visited Chennai to extend their wishes to the legendary composer, who played a crucial role in the film's growing popularity. Speaking on the occasion, an emotional Rupeysh shared, 'The main reason our film Shashtipoorthi received so much craze and recognition is Ilaiyaraaja sir. His support and kind words are unforgettable. He wholeheartedly blessed me, saying I will grow as both a hero and a producer. With this motivation, I plan to make more meaningful films under the Maa Aayi Creations banner.' The film, which hit theatres on May 30, stars Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Archana, Rupeysh, and Akanksha in lead roles. It is helmed by director Pavan Prabha and has been getting positive responses from the public. During the Chennai visit, Dr. Rajendra Prasad paid floral tribute to Ilaiyaraaja as a mark of respect. He even sang a few classic tracks from his previous films like April 1 Vidudala and Preminchu Pelladu, which delighted Ilaiyaraaja. 'You're singing very well, Prasad,' the composer appreciated warmly. The legendary musician spent quality time with the film's team—interacting with Rupeysh, Pavan Prabha, lyricist Chaitanya Prasad, and cinematographer Ram—congratulating them for their efforts and the heartfelt storytelling in Shashtipoorthi. With Ilaiyaraaja's blessings and audience love, Shashtipoorthi is shaping up to be a memorable success.
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘Raja Kaiya Vacha': The Ilaiyaraaja magic Malayalam music didn't know it needed
There's something in 'Isaignani' Ilaiyaraaja's songs that one can't find in those composed by others. Not just in his Tamil compositions, even his Malayalam tracks evoke a feeling that's difficult to articulate. Take, for instance, 'Aalippazham Perukkaan' from My Dear Kuttichathan (1984), the first Indian film shot in the 3D format. It's not just another song; it's a childhood anthem for Malayalees, a track that defined the formative years not only of the kids of that era but also of their children. Unlike typical songs crafted specifically for kids, often overloaded with manufactured cuteness, it seems Ilaiyaraaja's intention was to go beyond merely delighting children; he also sought to reach the child within every adult and take them on a joyful ride back to their own childhood. Rather than having singers S Janaki and SP Sailaja use artificially high-pitched voices to mimic children, he allowed them to retain much of their natural adult tone. The result was a carefully balanced rendition that didn't fully enter the childlike register but still resonated deeply with both kids and the children in adults alike. Only in SCREEN | Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam's Nayakan is not timeless, nor has it aged well; let that sink in In many ways, the song filled a gap in the hearts of listeners that they didn't even know existed. Truth be told, Raja Kaiya Vacha (If Raja lays his hands), the songs would quietly fill the voids in our hearts. Although the industry had many filmmakers focused solely on commercial ventures, it was in Vyaamoham (1978) helmed by cinema legend KG George that Ilaiyaraaja made his debut in Malayalam. By then, he was already making significant strides in Tamil cinema. Among the tracks he composed for Vyaamoham, 'Poovaadikalil' and 'Neeyo Njaano' stood out for their unconventional pacing and composition. Given that Malayalam cinema already boasted several talented composers and with Raaja quickly becoming a sensation across South India, with the Telugu and Kannada industries also eager to work with him, he did not return to Malayalam cinema for some time. Yet, Raaja was not someone one could ignore. He kept delivering astonishing work, one composition after another, in all languages. Regardless of the film's genre or the emotional context, Ilaiyaraaja consistently crafted jaw-dropping songs. Thug Life controversy explained | From Kamal Haasan's controversial remark on Kannada language to petition in Karnataka high court What set him apart wasn't just the melody; it was the intricate sangathis and subtle nuances embedded in each track, combined with his extraordinary orchestration skills. These elements made Raaja even more popular. With Malayalees' beloved singers like S Janaki, KJ Yesudas, SP Balasubrahmanyam and Vani Jairam, among others, delivering some of their finest performances in collaboration with him, it didn't take Malayali filmmakers long to realise that this was not 'just another music composer'. However, it took some time for Ilaiyaraaja to truly settle into the Malayalam industry and get his first major breakthrough. That moment came with director Balu Mahendra's Olangal (1982). It was a perfect platform for Raaja to bring out his A-game, and he did, and how. Not just one, but all three songs in the album — 'Kuliradunnu Maanathu', 'Thumbi Vaa Thumbakudathin' and 'Vezhaambal Kezhum Venalkkudeeram' — became evergreen classics, celebrated to this day for their beauty and emotional depth. Each track, set against a different emotional backdrop, struck the perfect musical and emotional chords. Thus, he effortlessly carved his place permanently in the hearts of the audiences here. Just as much as he tried to understand the regional ethos and aesthetics, Ilaiyaraaja also contributed to elevating Malayalam songs to another level, where they could be savoured by people from other regions as well. While his tracks were rooted in the local, they were also strikingly universal, with a richer orchestration and a fondness for using choruses to evoke a sense of togetherness and belonging. Regardless of one's mother tongue, Raaja's songs — like arrows laced with compassion and serenity — pierced the hearts of listeners. Otherwise, how is it possible for a man who still doesn't know Malayalam fluently to craft a lullaby like 'Alliyilam Poovo' (Mangalam Nerunnu, 1984) that's as dear to Malayalis as 19th-century poet and musician Irayimman Thampi's 'Omanathinkal Kidavo'? The same Raaja who composed the peppy 'Maane Madhurakkarimbe' (Pinnilavu, 1983) also created the jubilant romantic track 'Vaalittezhuthiya Neelakkadakkannil Meeno' (Onnanu Nammal, 1984), the children's song 'Thannannam Thaanannam' (Yathra, 1985), the semi-classical 'Neelalohitha' (Kaveri, 1986) and the evergreen romantic melody 'Poonkaattinodum' (Poomukhappadiyil Ninneyum Kaathu, 1986). While the maestro kept delivering exceptional albums one after another, his work in legendary filmmaker P Padmarajan's Moonnam Pakkam (1988) set a benchmark for how a composer should truly enter the soul of a narrative, creating music that serves the story, rather than forcing a soundtrack onto it. Ilaiyaraaja composed two songs for Moonnam Pakkam, one of the most acclaimed tragedies in Malayalam cinema history — 'Unarumee Gaanam', sung by G Venugopal, and 'Thaamarakkili Paadunnu', sung by KS Chithra, MG Sreekumar and Raaja himself. His compositions were so attuned to the film's emotional core that it feels impossible to believe the music and the narrative weren't born together, like two peas in a pod. From Adharvam's (1989) 'Puzhayorathil' and 'Poovayi Virinju', and Season's (1989) 'Poyvaroo', to Anaswaram's (1991) hauntingly beautiful 'Tharapatham Chethoharam', Ilaiyaraaja turned whatever he touched into gold. At the start of the 1990s, Raaja collaborated twice with veteran filmmaker Fazil and delivered back-to-back mesmerising albums. Ente Sooryaputhrikku (1991) told the story of a young woman searching for her estranged birth mother, while Pappayude Swantham Appoos (1992) revolved around a widower and his desperate attempts to love and be loved by his terminally ill son, whom he had long neglected while grappling with the grief of losing his wife. Tracks like 'Aalapanam Thedum', 'Olathumpathu', 'Enn Poove Pon Poove', 'Snehathin Poonchola', and 'Kaaka Poocha Kokkara' were not only brilliant compositions but also brought out the best in their vocalists, giving Malayalis unforgettable musical moments. In 1996, the maestro gifted Malayalam cinema one of his finest albums with Priyadarshan's Kaalapani, starring Mohanlal and Tabu. Each track offered a fresh experience — rich in orchestration, rhythmic complexity and emotional depth — and collectively, they touched listeners in an unprecedented way. He continued to offer gems with films like Guru (1997), Kaliyoonjal (1997), Oru Yathramozhi (1997) and Friends (1999). The year 2000 marked the beginning of his fruitful collaboration with director Sathyan Anthikkad, and the two have worked together on several acclaimed films since. Their musical drama Kochu Kochu Santhoshangal (2000) was widely appreciated, and their partnership continued to shine in films like Manassinakkare (2003), Achuvinte Amma (2005), Rasathanthram (2006), Vinodayathra (2007), Innathe Chintha Vishayam (2008), Bhagyadevatha (2009) and Kadha Thudarunnu (2010). Some of their most beloved tracks include 'Ghanashyaama', 'Kodamanjin Thaazhvarayil', 'Shivakaradhamarukalayamaay Naadam', 'Marakkudayaal', 'Melleyonnu', 'Chendaykkoru Kolundeda', 'Thamarakuruvikku', 'Enthu Paranjaalum', 'Attinkarayorathe', 'Thevaram Nokkunnunde', 'Mandaarappoo Mooli', 'Swapnangal Kannezhuthiya', 'Aaro Paadunnu', and 'Kizhakkumala Kammallitta'. Meanwhile, he also composed for Hariharan and MT Vasudevan Nair's epic period drama Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja (2009), starring Mammootty. His most recent work here was Clint (2017). Although Malayalam cinema has witnessed many talented composers, it is undeniable that the industry wouldn't have reached such heights without Ilaiyaraaja's invaluable contributions. As he continues to soar, audiences eagerly await his return to the industry. Anandu Suresh is a Senior sub-editor at Indian Express Online. He specialises in Malayalam cinema, but doesn't limit himself to it and explores various aspects of the art form. He also pens a column titled Cinema Anatomy, where he delves extensively into the diverse layers and dimensions of cinema, aiming to uncover deeper meanings and foster continuous discourse. Anandu previously worked with The New Indian Express' news desk in Hyderabad, Telangana. You can follow him on Twitter @anandu_suresh_ and write (or send movie recommendations) to him at ... Read More
New Indian Express
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Ilaiyaraaja's symphony 'Valiant' to be performed by London Philharmonic Orchestra in Tamil Nadu on August 2
CHENNAI: Music Maestro Ilaiyaraaja on his birthday, announced that his symphony 'Valiant', first performed in March in London, will be performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra in Tamil Nadu on August 2 (Saturday). The venue of the performance has not yet been disclosed. The legendary composer made the announcement in a video message amidst wishes pouring in from fans and other prominent personalities as he turns 82 today. In the video message, Ilaiyaraaja said he was sharing the happy news that the symphony he composed and performed in London will be performed for 'his people' in Tamil Nadu.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Stalin, Palaniswami extend birthday wishes to Ilaiyaraaja; TN gears up for maestro's symphony concert
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami extended heartfelt birthday wishes to music maestro Ilaiyaraaja , who turns 82 on June 3. In his message, Stalin described himself as "one among the crores of Ilaiyaraaja's fans," and expressed his anticipation for the veteran composer's much-awaited symphony performance scheduled in Tamil Nadu on August 2. நாட்டுப்புற இசை, மெல்லிசை, துள்ளலிசை, மரபிசை, தமிழிசை, மேற்கத்திய இசை என அனைத்திலும் கரைகண்டு தமிழர்களின் பெருமைமிகு அடையாளமாகத் திகழும் இசைஞானி திரு. @ilaiyaraaja அவர்களுக்கு என் நெஞ்சம் நிறைந்த பிறந்தநாள் வாழ்த்துகள்! தங்களின் #Symphony இசை தமிழ்நாட்டில் ஒலிக்கவுள்ள ஆகஸ்ட்… — (@mkstalin) June 2, 2025 "Ilaiyaraaja's music has no boundaries. It has inspired generations, and I, like millions of others, eagerly await his upcoming concert," he said. Tamil Nadu Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami also lauded Ilaiyaraaja's contributions to Tamil music and cinema. "His music is intertwined with the emotions of every Tamil. His melodies have stood the test of time and continue to touch our hearts," he said in his birthday greeting. Actor Nasser speaks at Ilaiyaraja75 ticket launch TVK leader Vijay, in his tribute, hailed Ilaiyaraaja as "a musical treasure of Tamil Nadu and a global cultural icon." He added, "Ilaiyaraaja's compositions have accompanied us in joy and sorrow. His genius has elevated Tamil identity through music. We are proud to honour him today." Born in Pannaipuram on June 3, 1943, Ilaiyaraaja redefined Indian film music with a unique fusion of folk, Carnatic, Western classical, and electronic styles. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pistol de sudură laser multifuncțional siginificant Află mai multe Undo His debut in Tamil cinema came with Annakili (1976), which marked the beginning of a revolutionary era in film music. Since then, he has composed music for over 1,000 films across multiple Indian languages. Ilaiyaraaja holds the distinction of being the first Asian composer to score a full symphony with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London. His iconic songs, such as 'Ilaya Nila', 'Thenpandi Cheemaiyile', and 'Janani Janani' remain embedded in Tamil cultural memory. Honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2010 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2018, he was nominated to the Rajya Sabha in 2022, further acknowledging his stature as a national figure in arts and culture. As Tamil Nadu prepares for his landmark symphony concert this August, his 82nd birthday stands as a celebration not only of a legendary artist but also of a musical era that shaped generations. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
On Mani Ratnam's Birthday, List Of His 7 Iconic Films With Ilaiyaraaja
Last Updated: Mani Ratnam and Ilaiyaraaja, together, delivered some of the most unforgettable classics of Tamil cinema. Mani Ratnam and Ilaiyaraaja, the dynamic duo of Indian cinema, share their birthdays on June 2. Their groundbreaking collaborations – some of the most iconic films in Indian cinema history, are still etched in the audience's hearts for the incredible blend of direction and enchanting music. Since both the stalwarts are celebrating their special day today, it is only fitting to commemorate their journey by listing some of their films together as director and music composer. Pallavi Anu Pallavi (1983) Mani Ratnam's debut film, Pallavi Anu Pallavi, is a Kannada romantic drama starring Anil Kapoor as a man torn between love and commitment. Ilaiyaraaja's soothing and introspective score, with tracks like Naguva Nayana, blends well with the film's emotional nuance. Though less known, it marked Ratnam's early brilliance and Ilaiyaraaja's ability to craft music that resonates with subtle, heartfelt storytelling. Pagal Nilavu (1985) In this gripping tale of love and societal pressures, Murali and Revathi play the lead pair. Ilaiyaraaja's evocative soundtrack, including songs like Poovil Vandu, adds emotional depth to the narrative. The movie showcases Ratnam's early knack for character-driven stories, with Ilaiyaraaja's music providing a soulful backdrop. Nayakan (1987) Nayakan is a landmark Tamil gangster drama starring Kamal Haasan as Velu Naicker, a slum-dweller who becomes a criminal. Inspired by The Godfather and Varadarajan Mudaliar's life, the film won hearts for the portrayal of emotional depth. Ilaiyaraaja's evocative score, with tracks like Thenpaandi Cheemayile, perfectly captures the film's raw emotion and grit. Agni Natchathiram (1988) This action drama revolves around the rivalry between two half-brothers, played by Prabhu and Karthik. Elevating the energetic narrative is Ilaiyaraaja's dynamic score, with tracks like Raaja Raajathi capturing the youthful zeal and emotional conflict. Upon its release, the film emerged as a commercial hit and is remembered for its stunning visuals, strong performances and Ilaiyaraaja's blockbuster music. Mouna Ragam (1986) The poignant romantic drama about a woman (Revathi) navigating love and loss in an arranged marriage is a must-watch. The film's emotional depth is amplified by Ilaiyaraaja's soul-stirring soundtracks. Songs like Chinna Chinna Vanna Kuyil went on to become timeless classics. The film showcases Ratnam's ability to blend personal stories with universal themes, with Ilaiyaraaja's music adding emotional depth to the narrative. Anjali (1990) Watch this heart-wrenching drama about a family coping with their ill daughter, portrayed by Shamili if poignant dramas are your favourites. Ilaiyaraaja's tender and emotive score, with tracks like Anjali Anjali tugging at heartstrings, perfectly encapsulates the essence of the film's sensitive storytelling. In a milestone, the film also won a National Award for the best actress. Thalapathi (1991) Tamil gangster drama, a modern interpretation of the bond between Mahabharata's Karna and Duryodhana, stars Rajinikanth and Mammootty in lead roles. Set in the slums, the film marked the last collaboration between Ilaiyaraaja and Mani Ratnam. First Published:
