Ilayaraaja

Full biography Ilayaraaja

Ilayaraaja is an Indian composer, singer, and music director who has composed music for over 1000 films across various languages, such as Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, and Kannada. Born as R. Gnanathesikan on June 2, 1943, in Pannaipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, Ilayaraaja began his musical journey when he was just 14 years old. He learned to play several musical instruments, including the guitar, accordion, and harmonium.

With his talent and passion for music, Ilayaraaja began composing and arranging music for plays and other musical events while still in school. He later went on to learn classical Indian music, which further helped him develop his unique style and approach to music composition.

Ilayaraaja's music is known for its distinctive sound, blending Indian classical music with Western classical music and folk music. He is famous for his use of orchestration, creating complex arrangements that complement and enhance the emotions and moods of the movie scene.

Throughout his career, Ilayaraaja has collaborated with many prominent film directors, such as Bharathiraja, Mani Ratnam, S. Shankar, K. Balachander, and Balu Mahendra, among others. He has won several awards, including four National Film Awards, six Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, and five Filmfare Awards South.

Ilayaraaja is considered to be one of the most influential and celebrated music directors in Indian cinema. His music has touched the hearts of millions of people, and his contribution to the world of music will always be remembered.