Veteran Music Composer Deva Dies At 75; Tamil Film Industry Pays Tribute

Veteran Tamil music composer and singer Deva, popularly known as ‘Thenisai Thendral’, passed away in Chennai on October 17, 2026, at the age of 75. His demise has prompted an outpouring of tributes from members of the Tamil film industry and political leaders.

Known for his distinctive compositions and contribution to Tamil film music, Deva carved a niche for himself through memorable soundtracks and his role in bringing gaana music into mainstream cinema. His work across several decades made him a prominent name in the South Indian music industry.

Industry Mourns Deva’s Demise

Several prominent personalities, including Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, actor Vijay Sethupathi, actress Khushbu Sundar and singer Chinmayi Sripaada, expressed their condolences following the composer’s death.

Lyricist Vairamuthu also remembered his association with Deva, while Premallatha Vijayakanth recalled the composer’s close bond with her late husband, actor-politician Vijayakanth. The tributes reflected Deva’s longstanding relationships within the Tamil entertainment industry.

A Lasting Legacy In Tamil Film Music

Over a career spanning several decades, Deva composed music for hundreds of films across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam cinema. He was particularly recognised for his folk-inspired melodies and for popularising gaana music among mainstream film audiences.

His notable film soundtracks include Annamalai, Baashha and Arunachalam, starring Rajinikanth. His signature musical themes, including the iconic introductory score associated with Rajinikanth’s on-screen persona, became an enduring part of Tamil cinema’s musical identity.

Deva’s passing marks the loss of a composer whose music helped shape generations of Tamil film audiences and left a lasting imprint on the region’s popular music landscape.