Ilaiyaraaja

Ilaiyaraaja was born in Pannaipuram on 2nd June 1943. He is from a family of musicians, and rose to fame as a prolific composer, scoring over 1000 films in 38 years. Learning music from his mother, Chinnathayammal and mastering the harmonium, he honed his skills while travelling with his brothers' music group.

He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Indian music composers and is often credited for introducing Western Musical sensibilities to the Indian film musical mainstream. In 1969, he moved to Madras and found success in the film industry with "Annakili" in 1976, revolutionising Tamil film music with a blend of folk and Western elements. He is known for integrating Indian folk music and traditional Indian instrumentation with Western classical music techniques.

Known as "Raja," he showcased his versatility with classical and orchestral compositions. His musical prowess earned him titles like "Isaignani" (Musical Genius) and "The Maestro" by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra London.

Beyond film, he composed non-film albums and even a symphony for the London Philharmonic Orchestra in 1993, showcasing his global impact and musical genius.

As a writer, he published the following books, "Vazhi Thunai" (1998), "Vetta Velithanil Kotti Kidakkuthu" (1998), "Natha Veliyinilae" (1999), "Paal Nila Pathai" (2001), "Thuli Kadal" (2001), "Gnana Ganga" (2002), "Venba Nanmaalai" (2002), "Unnmaikku Thirai Yedhu" (2004), "Yaarukku Yaar Ezhuthuvadhu" (2004), "En Narambu Veenai" (2004), "Palli Ezhuchi Paavai Padalgal" (2005, 2014), "Aadhi Sankararin Vivega Soodamani" (2005), "Yaadhumagi Nindrai" (2005), "Ramana Amudhu" (2019), and "Sangeetha Kanavugal" (2016).

Deeply philosophical, he draws inspiration from figures like Ramana Maharishi, embodying a blend of artistic excellence and spiritual wisdom.