Veteran Tamil Music Composer ‘Thenisai Thendral’ Deva Passes Away at 75

The celebrated composer and singer, who played a significant role in popularising Chennai’s gaana music in Tamil cinema, dies in Chennai.

Veteran Tamil film music composer and playback singer Deva, affectionately known as ‘Thenisai Thendral’ (Breeze of Sweet Music), passed away in Chennai on Saturday, October 17, 2026. He was 75.

Born Devanesan Chokkalingam in Chennai in 1950, Deva established a distinctive identity in Tamil cinema through his memorable melodies, energetic folk-based compositions and contributions to the popularity of gaana music.

He began his career as a film music composer with the Tamil film ‘Maatukara Mannaru’ in 1986, according to the biographical details provided. Over a career spanning several decades, he composed music for more than 400 films across Tamil and other Indian film industries, including Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.

Deva played a significant role in bringing the traditional gaana music associated with North Chennai into mainstream Tamil cinema. His compositions became popular among audiences across generations, earning him a special place in the Tamil film music industry.

Beyond composing music for films, Deva also worked on television serials and established himself as a playback singer. He lent his voice to songs composed both by himself and by other music directors. He also made guest appearances in several films, delighting audiences with his screen presence.

Deva remained connected with television music programmes and appeared as a special guest on the tenth season of the popular Star Vijay television show ‘Super Singer’.

More recently, he attended the success celebration of ‘Meesaiya Murukku 2’, directed by Hiphop Tamizha Adhi, where he honoured gaana musicians.

Reports indicate that Deva was admitted to a private hospital in Chennai following a sudden deterioration in his health on Saturday morning. Reports of a heart attack as the cause of his death have also emerged, although the circumstances surrounding his death should be confirmed through an official statement.

Deva was one of the prominent music composers in Tamil cinema during the 1990s. His distinctive musical style, memorable soundtracks and contribution to popularising gaana music have left a lasting mark on Tamil cinema.

Reports state that his final respects are scheduled to be held on Sunday evening. Further details regarding the arrangements are awaited.