CHENNAI: Veteran Tamil film composer and singer Deva, whose music earned him a devoted following in Malaysia and beyond, died here yesterday. He was 75.
Born Devanesan Chokkalingam, Deva was affectionately known as "Thenisai Thendral", meaning "breeze of sweet music".
His career spanned nearly four decades, during which he composed songs and background scores for more than 400 films in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.
Deva was renowned for popularising gaana—a folk music tradition rooted in Chennai's working-class communities—in mainstream Tamil cinema.
His versatility also extended to romantic melodies, devotional songs and energetic commercial soundtracks.
Among his best-known works were the soundtracks for Annamalai, Baashha, Aasai, Kadhal Kottai, Nerrukku Ner, Vaalee and Kushi.
His music for Rajinikanth's films, particularly Annamalai and Baashha, helped establish the larger-than-life musical identity associated with the superstar.
Despite his success in India, Deva held a special place in the hearts of Malaysian Tamil music fans.
In a 2023 news report ahead of a Kuala Lumpur concert, he spoke warmly about the country's influence on the reach of his music.
"Although I'm known for my gaana songs, it was only through Malaysia that my melodic songs became a hit worldwide," he said, reflecting on how Malaysian audiences helped his softer compositions find wider recognition.
His contributions to music were recognised with honours including the Tamil Nadu government's Kalaimamani award and a state film award for his work on Aasai.
His musical legacy continues through his son, composer Srikanth Deva, while his brothers, Sabesh and Murali, have also worked in the film music industry.
Deva's death prompted tributes from across the Indian film industry, with colleagues and fans remembering his distinctive sound, prolific output and warmth.
For Malaysian listeners, his passing marks the loss of a composer whose melodies travelled across borders and remained cherished by generations of Tamil music lovers.
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