Renowned Tamil music composer , popularly known as or ‘Thenisai Thendral’, is no more. The veteran was 75 and passed away after suffering from a cardiac arrest on Saturday in Chennai. The news of his passing was confirmed by Deva’s son Srikanth Deva, who told PTI, “My father passed away suddenly due to cardiac arrest.”
Deva was best known for his ‘Gaana’ songs, had a career spanning almost 40 years and delivered more than 400 films across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada films.
Deva helmed the iconic title card music for superstar , which is still used for the actor’s film introductions.
Paying a tribute to Deva, actor Karthi posted a picture of the music composer on X. He wrote in the caption, “Deva sir’s boundless energy and childlike innocence were as special as his music. He brought a unique joy to everything he did, and his melodies and vibrant Chennai gaana will always remain a part of our lives. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
Music composer Sam CS added on X, “Your timeless melodies and unforgettable songs will forever live in our hearts. Thank you for enriching Tamil music with your extraordinary talent. Rest in Peace, Legend.”
Superstar Rajinikanth arrived at the composer’s residence to pay his last respects to Deva.
CM and TVK chief also visited the late composer’s family at their house in Chennai.
Former CM and DMK president MK Stalin was also spotted while leaving Deva’s house after paying his tribute.
“I was deeply shocked to hear the news of the passing of ‘Thenisai Thendral’ Deva. Deva possessed a pure, guileless heart, entirely free from jealousy, deceit, or cunning. He was instrumental in bringing the ‘Gaana’ genre into mainstream film music—to such an extent that the term ‘Gaana’ became synonymous with Deva himself. Coming from a simple rural background to Chennai, he rose to become one of the leading music directors in the South Indian film industry, serving as an inspiration to many. He composed music for films featuring all the top superstars, playing a pivotal role in their success,” Stalin wrote on X.
