Singer Uma Ramanan Passes Away

Noted playback singer Uma Ramanan passed away on Wednesday. She was 69.

She was predominantly celebrated for her contributions to Tamil music. Beyond her studio recordings, she has captivated audiences with her live performances, boasting an impressive repertoire of over 6,000 concerts spanning an incredible career of 35 years.

Notably linked with the iconic composer Ilayaraja, Uma Ramanan stands out among his notable discoveries. Many of her most unforgettable moments on stage have been brought to life through Ilayaraja's musical creations.

Her Journey

Uma Ramanan's journey started off in 1976 with Hindi flick 'Play Boy'. Her first Tamil project was 'Shri Krishna Leela' in 1977.

Yet, it was the song 'Poongathave Thaal Thirava' from the film 'Nizhalgal,' composed by Ilayaraja that propelled her to the forefront of playback singers. This breakthrough led to over 100 collaborations with Ilayaraja.

Considered one of Ilayaraja's rare finds, Uma Ramanan's career flourished with songs like 'Kanmani Nee Vara' (Thendrale Ennai Thodu, 1985) and 'Nee Pathi Naan Pathi Kanne' (Keladi Kanmani, 1990). Her collaboration with other music directors, including Vidyasagar, Deva, and Mani Sharma, further enriched her repertoire, cementing her status as a prominent playback singer in Tamil cinema.

Some of their hit songs include 'Poongathave Thaal Thirava' (Nizhalgal, 1980), 'Aasai Raaja Aariroe' (Moodu Pani, 1980), and 'Aanada Raagam' (Panneer Pushpangal, 1981). Spanning over two decades, their partnership produced iconic tracks such as 'Nee Pathi Naan Pathi Kanne' (Keladi Kanmani, 1990) and 'Ooradangum Samathile' (Pudhupatti Ponnuthayi, 1994.

Many fans of her have expressed condolence over her death. "Thank you Uma Ramanan Mam for the live orchestra experience. Musiano was the top draw in those days.Memorable ones. Praying you attain Emperuman's feet," one user wrote.

The second user said, "Uma Ramanan - A unique and beautiful voice! 🌸🙏May her soul rest peacefully in the divine abode!!" The third netizen commented, "Remembering the voice that touched millions of hearts since 1977. Rest in peace - Uma Ramanan mam!"

Another user stated, "Oh dear... You put a Uma Ramanan playlist that would feature the Crème de la Crème songs. Heard she was ill for some time. Go well ma'am."