Ilaiyaraaja is one of the most prolific musicians India has seen. The composer has regaled millions with his tunes for over five decades. Fondly called Raaja, the 80-year-old has fans across generations.
Born in Pannaipuram village in Theni, Tamil Nadu, he stormed into the music industry in the 70s, and ruled the Tamil music industry for several decades.
He has composed over 8,000 songs in 1,000 films and has enthralled audiences through his concerts.
He has been conferred with the Padma Bhushan, the Padma Vibhushan and five National Awards as well.
He is called ‘Isaignani’ (the musical sage) and was conferred the title ‘Maestro’ by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, London, being the first Asian composer to record a symphony with them in 1993.
He is credited with changing the way music is made in Tamil films. He was also one of the first Indian composers to use Western classical music and arrangements in his music.
Besides Tamil cinema, he has also scored music for Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam and Hindi movies like Cheeni Kum and Paa.
His humble background and upbringing heavily influenced his musical journey which can be seen in his music infused with elements of regular, everyday life.
Now, a biopic on the maestro is in the making and actor Dhanush will reportedly essay the role. According to the reports, the film will go on floors in 2024 and be released in 2025.
Film trade analyst Manobala Vijayabalan confirmed the news on X.
(Edited by Padmashree Pande)
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