Tamil Nadu: ‘Thenisai Thendral’ Deva laid to rest amid tears, tributes

Veteran Indian composer Deva, renowned for his work in Tamil cinema, passed away at age 75 in Chennai after suffering a heart attack, according to reports. Born as Devanesan Chokkalingam, he was known for composing over 400 songs for films in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada languages. Frequently referred to as "Thenisai Thendral," Deva was a beloved figure in Tamil cinema, with a unique ability to create songs that resonated with audiences across borders.

Deva's music transcended regional boundaries, as he fondly recalled in 2023, when he visited Malaysia to perform for fans. He credited Malaysian audiences for the international success of some of his songs, with tracks like "Kadhal Kottai" and "Nalam Nalamariya Aval" gaining significant popularity in Malaysia.

Throughout his career, Deva maintained a lighthearted and humorous demeanor, even in the face of adversity. In a 2023 interview, he shared a humorous anecdote about a fan threatening to set himself on fire during a temple performance due to his complete loss of voice. Deva's legacy also includes his son, composer Srikanth Deva, and his brothers, Sabesh and Murali, who shared in his musical achievements.

Deva's contributions to Tamil cinema were recognized with prestigious awards, including the Tamil Nadu government's Kalaimamani award and a Tamil Nadu State Film Award for his work on "Aasai." His enduring impact on the film industry and Malaysian audiences alike will be remembered fondly for years to come.