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Hindi film songs

The evergreen duets of T M Soundararajan  & P Susheela

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Part 2 -B

Continuing my blog on the great duets of TMS with P Susheela from the earlier part, here I conclude the series with some of their memorable duets from the year 1966 onwards.

By this time, MSV had parted ways from his long time associate T K Ramamoorthy , but was ruling the charts in a very big way. Towards the early 70’s and onwards, many new music directors slowly made their mark and although TMS & PS may have sung relatively lesser songs for these new comers, still , whatever they sand turned out to be evergreen hits.

In this concluding part, I am listing out around 25 songs  to the best of my ability. The usual caveat always stands good-no listing of songs by such legends can never be comprehensive and my selection may be totally different from any other music lover’s selection.

While looking at the songs , I came across a video of a live concert that was held in the year 2010 , when these two legends were well past their prime-TMS would have been 88 years old and PS, 75 years. They were singing their immortal duet-Malarnthum Malaratha Paathi Malar -one could notice the hands of TMS were shaking as he was holding the microphone , the voice had the age of 88 years and had slowed down a lot  , but still the way he sang with that emotion that is his trademark , equally supported by PS , is truly remarkable! I have provided the link to this live performance at the end of this blog along with the original version they sung in 1961.

This particular song has been recreated by numerous singers in social media , but I personally feel no one can even come near the rendition of the evergreen pair of T M Soundararajan and P Susheela. As long as there is music in this world, the name of TMS & PS will always be remembered with reverence.

1.Rajaavin Paarvai-Anbe Vaa-1966-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

Let me begin with a blockbuster song! The orchestration of MSV is simply out of the world with strings, accordion & the chorus-all creating a masterpiece with majesty in TMS voice, complimented by PS’s sweet vocals.

2. Naan Parthathile Aval Oruthiyaithan-Anbe Vaa-1966-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

Anbe Vaa film was a musical bonanza and this is one more super hit song. The interludes have the typical stamp of MSV, with TMS taking the lead in the song, joined by PS towards the end in her inimitable style.

3. Kalyana Naal Paarkka-Parakkum Paavai-1966-M S Vishwanathan-Kannadasan

A lilting waltz rhythm , with a superb brass section , MSV came out with a superb western dance number . Note how TMS has sung with a slightly different tone for MGR as compared to his usual style. Not to forget the way PS complements TMS in each line.

4. Innum Parthukondirunthal-Vallaval Oruvan-1966-Vedha-Kannadasan

Music director Vedha was capable of composing original tunes , but somehow the commercial compulsions of the producers confined him to songs inspired from the popular Hindi film songs of those times. But he would recreate them excellently in terms of orchestration . This song was inspired from the well-known music composers Shankar Jaikishan’s Mera Dil Ab Tera O sajna ( Film Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai-1960) , originally sung by Lata Mangeshkar as a solo song only. Vedha converted this as a duet superbly. TMS , whenever he sings for Jaishankar, always had a distinct tone.

5. Naan Malarodu Thaniyaga-Iru Vallavargal-1966-Vedha -Kannadasan

One more inspired song by Vedha . This is from the  Shankar-Jaikishan’s super hit Tujhe Pyar Karte Hain song from the film April Fool that was sung by Rafi & Lata was recreated in Tamil by Vedha, and we have our own Rafi & Lata i.e  TMS & PS making this equally popular in Tamizh . Note how Kannadasan does a superb job when writing for an already composed song with so meaningful lyrics, without spoiling the song .

6. Chandrodayam Oru Pen Aanatho-Chandrodayam-1966-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

This duet can easily rank among the top ten by this golden pair. A superb composition by MSV that has an extra-ordinarily long charanam. The way both TMS and PS sang this , is something to be cherished for years .

7. Iraivan Irukkindrana-Avan Pithana-1966-R Parthasarathi-Kannadasan

This may strictly not be a famous duet of TMS & PS. I remembered this rare song after seeing so much destruction in recent war that has only taken a pause-God only knows if peace will ever return permanently in this troubled world. Composed by a composer who has remained unsung-only while digging out songs for my blogs I came across the name of R Parthasarathi-I must admit this could be purely my ignorance -many music lovers must be definitely knowing more about him. Different sources cite the lyricist as Kannadasan/

8. Ninaithen Vanthai Nooru Vayadu-Kaavalkaran-1967-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

Starting off with an Arabian style tune and merging into a Punjabi bhangra so beautifully can only be done by that legend MSV! TMS & PS give that special touch to those phrases like Oh …ho…ho hoyyya so nicely, adding a unique charm to this evergreen song.

9. Muthakkalo Kangal-Nenjirukkum Varai-1967-M S Vishwanathan-Kannadasan

Only the picturization is austere, as the director C V Sridhar wanted-the lead actors Sivaji Ganesan and K R Vijaya acted in this film without any make-up. The music , orchestration and singing were so rich! This song is one of the topmost among the evergreen duets of this golden pair.

10. Poomalaiyil Or Malligai-Ooty Varai Uravu-1967-M S Vishwanthan-Kannadasan

By this time most of the ardent music lovers would have heard the anecdote behind this song’s creation as narrated by the master MSV himself. Taking inspiration from a brief flute prelude that appeared in the Hindi song composed by MSV’s ‘manaseega guru’ Naushad -Tu Mera Chand Mein Teri Chandidni, if MSV had not revealed this fact himself, no one could have ever guessed. That is how genius composers are made! The banjos that start off the rhythm after the line ‘ poomalayil’ is pure MSV signature!

11. Antha Sivagami maganidam -Pattanathil Bootham-1967-R Govarthanam-Kannadasan

I have consciously avoided writing much about the lyrical beauty in all these songs because if I start writing about Kaviarasar, then the blog’s theme would totally shift ! Making a brief exception, in this song I have to mention this story. It seems Kannadasan wanted to convey a subtle message on his political activities and the famous CM of T amil Nadi Kamarajar’s mother’s name was Sivagami. Using the theme of the film song , he did a master stroke of starting the song with the line ‘ antha Sivagami maganidam seithi solladi, yennai serum naal parka solladi’. Subtle touches like these make the songs of yore so interesting . No doubt, in all the talk about the story behind the song, we cannot forget the way in which TMS & PS rendered this.

12. Kuyilaga Naan Irunthenna-Selva Magal-1967-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

Whenever TMS sang for the actor Jaishankar, he had a slightly different tone and most of the songs, like the ones he sang for the other top heroes-MGR & Sivaji- were also great hits. One more signature composition of the Mellisai Mannar, superbly rendered by TMS& PS.

13. Mannika Vendugiren Unthan Aasaiyai-Iru Malargal-1967-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

When TMS starts the charanam with his inimitable style ‘ thithikkum idai unakku, enedrendum athu yenakku’ , we are elevated to the seventh heaven. Not to be left behind, OS always provides the equal counter to his singing and that is why one never tires of listening to this golden pair.

14. Pothumo Intha Idam-Naan-1967- T K Ramamoorthy-Kannadasan

After the immortal pair MSV & TKR parted their ways, MSV became a hugely successful independent composer. But unfortunately TK Ramamoorthy could get only few films , but he did compose some memorable songs-this one being one among them. Note the beautiful use of guitar and an innovative humming by both TMS & PS in the second charanam.

15. Vellikinnan Than Thanga Kaigalil-Uyarntha Manithan-1968-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

There are  very few songs in which PS joins in with only a humming. And what a great humming in this-it is as good as a normal duet.

This is without any doubt one of the  evergreen duets of TMS & PS.

16. En Kelvikkenna Badil-Uyarntha Manithan-1968-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

In the same film Uyarntha Manithan, if we had Vellikinnanthan picturised on the lead actors, this was on the second rung actors, but the song remains equally classic! TMS does more emoting than the actor on screen through his voice modulations!

17. Aadaludan Paadalai Kettu-Kudiyiruntha Kovil-1968-M S Vishwanathan-Alangudi Somu

With a terrific tempo , an unusual peppy style of singing by both the legends as compared to many of their very sober ones, this song proves that the veterans of those days can perform any genre. It was , in my personal opinion , their personal choice  that they restricted themselves to a particular style.

18. Kannoru Pakkam Nenjoru Pakkam-Niraikudam-1969-V Kumar-Kannadasan

I have been guilty of bias towards MSV-TKR or independent MSV composed songs-no once can avoid that as they had given the maximum hits for TMS-PS. I have tried to include many other composers also-V Kumar is one highly under-rated but extraordinarily talented composer. I have already written about his exclusively in my blogs. The charanam is vintage V Kumar -intricate yet sounding so melodious.

19. Azhagiya Tamizh Magan Ivan-Rickshawkaran-1971-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

Normally our film songs are around 3-4 minutes , but this one is a 6 minute song. But one can never get bored due to the excellent orchestration, singing and picturization of the song. The chorus is vintage MSV. Not to forget the ease with which both TMS & PS traverse through the high octaves so effortlessly!

20. Mayakemenna Intha Mounam-Vasantha Maaligai-1972-K V Mahadevan-Kannadasan

A film that ran successfully for almost 2 years during the first release, also went on to be as successful in digitally re-mastered versions twice-in 2013 and 2019.  All the songs from this film became super hits and Mayakemmenna is a classic that is liked  even today by music lovers. One more 6 minute song, but due to the excellent tune and rendition by the great pair, one can never get bored of the length.

21. Unathu Vizhiyil Enathu Paarvai-Naan Yen Piranthen-1972-Shankar Ganesh-Pulamaipithan

Shankar -Ganesh had a lucky break when they got this assignment to work an  MGR film. Everyone knows MGR  had an excellent music sense and almost all the songs of his films were great hits. This is one of the pleasing melodies from Shankar-Ganesh.

22. Iravukkum Pagalukkum-Engal Thanga Raja-1973-K V Mahadevan-Kannadasan

A typical KVM composition , with a fast tempo and sung so nicely by the duo. KVM had that ability to use minimum orchestration but the tunes were always so catchy. TMS’s adds his typical style while  singing the last line ‘ kavignar sonnathu konjam inimel kanapovathu manjam’

23. Madhanamaligayil Manthira Maalagalam-Rajapart Rangadurai-1973-M S Vishwanathan-Kannadasan

One can never believe TMS was 51 years when this song was recorded. His voice had the same verve and energy of a singer in 20’s. The majestic way he starts off the song-the film was about a stage artist and so the style of the song was typical of the old stage songs. Equally youthful is a 40 year old P Susheela. Their voices never aged! Actually MSV had thought of two different tunes and ultimately merged them so beautifully based on the suggestion from an office boy supplying tea who happened to hear both the tunes! Genius at its best!

24. Aagaya Panthalile Ponnunjal-Ponnunjal-1973-M S Vishwanathan-Kannadasan

MSV used a grand orchestration with many wind, string instruments , complemented so beautifully with that master wordsmith Kaviarasar Kannadasan and to top them all-what a rendition by the golden pair!

25.Neramithu Neramithi Nenjil -Rishimoolam-1980-Ilayaraja-Kannadasan

One really wished the Isaignani could have composed few more songs with this golden pair. However music style had a sea-change with his advent and that is a separate world with its own charm. From the very limited few songs that TMS & PS together rendered for this mastro, this is a memorable duet. This could have been one of the last hit songs of this immortal pair.

I conclude my blog on the evergreen singing pair- T M Soundararajan and P Susheela . I know there can be so many other songs that I have missed , but hope this was a representative sample , covered in two parts.

Coupled with the first part in which I covered the duets of TMS with other singers, I feel happy that I could write about so many gems of the ‘ simmha kural’ TMS ayya.

In the beginning of this blog I mentioned about a live performance of the song Malarnthum Malaratha sung by this pair at a very advanced age. Here I am providing links to that and the original one. As long as music lives in this earth, this song will continue to move us emotionally.

TMS @ 88 years and PS @ 75 years….

And this one when they were at their prime….

Acknowledgements and Disclaimer:

I sincerely thank the publishers of following  Internet sources   for the information that I could gather for this article:

  1. You Tube
  2. Wikipedia
  3. Ragamalika TV-QFR series

The songs mentioned are from the popular, public domain and have been embedded here   only for the listening pleasure of the music lovers. The photograph is taken from the internet, duly recognizing the full copyrights for the same to the  original creator or the site where they were originally displayed .This blog does not claim any copyright over them, which rests with the respective owners of the rights.

Hindi film songs

Duets of T M Soundararajan

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Part 1-Some of his excellent duets with “other singers”

It was more than four years back , in Jan 2022 , as my second blog,  I had written about one of the greatest male playback singers of our country, T.M Soundararajan. In the initial days, I was not sure of embedding songs in my blogs and so it was a simple write up about 20 greats songs of TMS , randomly picked up by me. I had also confessed in that blog about how from being a person who was never fascinated by his songs in my younger days, I got transformed into a great fan of TMS  , now placing him among my most favourite singers!

The versatility, emotive content , his absolutely flawless Tamizh diction, ability to mould the voice according to the actor on whom the song is picturized-all make him a great playback singer and definitely I have to write many more blogs on him.

In this blog I will try to showcase some of his excellent duets as my earlier blog focused only on his solo songs ( with exception of only one duet-Malarndum Malarada with P Susheela). I will list out his duets covering all main female and male playback singers with whom TMS had sung . This blog will be in two parts as the duets that he rendered with P Susheela deserves a separate one. In fact it is impossible to cover his fabulous duets with PS in one blog as the pair of TMS & PS gave some of the evergreen songs in Tamil films. In fact Part 2 , his duets with P Susheela may have to be multiple blogs Part 2 -A, B ,C etc as their association gave the best songs of the golden era of Tamizh film music.

If there has been a pair of playback singers who might have sung the maximum number of duet songs in films, it must be TMS and P Susheela. Though I do not have any authentic statistics, it may run into some 700-800 songs . This could be followed by those he sang with L R Eashwari, P Leela, Jikki, K Jamuna Rani , S Janaki ,  and many other singers with whom the numbers may be less like  M L Vasanthakumari, A.P Komala,  Radha Jayalakshmi , Soolamangalam Jayalakshmi, Vani Jayaram etc.

Apart from female playback singers , TMS also rendered many memorable male duet songs with P B Sreenivas , Seerkazhi Govindarajan , K J Yesudas, S P Balasubrahmanyam and A L Raghavan.

Although the duets of TMS with singers other than P Susheela are relatively less in numbers and maybe not  known to all , barring the few he rendered with L R Eashwari, when we dig deep, definitely there are many gems to be discovered.

I will try my best to provide a representative  list covering some of his memorable songs with these singers , though including everyone may not be possible.

His duets with female playback singers  other than  P Susheela

M S Rajeshwari

    Kanvizhi Pugunthu Karuthinil-Thooku Thooki-1954-G Ramanathan-A Maruthakasi

    Before M S Rajeshwari got stereotyped into singing for child actors in films , she had sung for heroines . It was only in her later part of her career, somehow the film industry, that gets into a stereotyping mode most of the time, gave her only those songs that were to be sung in a child-like voice. This duet from the early career of TMS is a nice melody.

    • P Bhanumati

    Masila Nilave Nam Kadalili Magizhvodu-Ambikapathy-1957-G Ramanathan-Kannadasan

    In the early era most of the actors were good singers also and P Bhanumati was not only an actor-singer, but even produced and directed films. With a very unique and distinct voice she had rendered many great songs. This duet with TMS is one of her most popular ones. G Ramanathan was well-known for his epic songs that were ragamalikas and this is one of those great masterpieces from that genius composer, that has been created with different raagas but also a “ thalamalika” i.e with different rhythm patterns.

    • Jikki

    Kannil Vandhu Minnal Pol-Nadodi Mannan-1958-S M Subbaiha Naidu-Suratha

    Jikki was an accomplished singer , known for her crystal-clear voice and very versatile singing. Though her duets with TMS may have been few in numbers, this is a very well-known song from the famous film of MGR-Nadodi Mannan.

    • R Balasaraswathy

    Eliyorai Thazhthi Valiyorai Vazthum-Thai Piranthal Vazhi Pirakkum-1958-K V Mahadevan-K S Krishnamoorthy

    Very recently, i.e Oct 2025 , the unlucky singer R Balasaraswathy passed away at the age of 97. She started singing in late 30’s and went on to sing even till the 60’s , mainly in Tamil and Telugu films , but never got the recognition she deserved. Only while writing my blogs, I came across this forgotten singer-her most famous song was Neela Vanna Kanna Vada in the film Mangayar Thilagam( 1955) composed by S Dakshinamurthy. This rare duet with TMS is a soulful melody, sung with pathos equally well by both the singers.

    • P Leela

    Thazhaiyaam Poo Mudichu-Baga Pirivanai-1959- Vishwanathan -Ramamoorthy-Kannadasan

    Composed brilliantly by the Mellisai Mannargal Vishwanathan and Ramamoorthy with a folk tune  makes this song one of the greatest ever in that genre. As the cliché goes, the greatest things in this world are the simplest! With minimum orchestration , it is TMS & P Leela behind the screen and Sivaji Ganesan and Saroja Devi on screen who elevate this song to its lofty  heights.

    • M L Vasanthakumari

    Aadatha Manamum Undo -Mannathi Mannan-1960-Vishwanathan -Ramamoorthy-A Maruthakasi

    One of the greatest classical duets composed in Tamil films, Vishwanathan Ramamoorthy used the classical Lalithangi raagam for this song. TMS , in his typical style breezes through the higher notes with the characteristic flair for which he was well-known. And paired with him, we have the legend from the Carnatic classical world-M L Vasanthakumari . When such giants sing together , the result is a song that will remain etched in our memories forever!

    • Soolamangalam Rajalakshmi

    Ore Oru Oorile-Padikkatha Methai-1960-K V Mahadevan-Kannadasan

    The Soolamangalam sisters-Rajalakshmi and Jayalakshmi were more renowned for their devotional songs and the most popular Kanda Shashti Kavacham-a hymn in praise of Lord Muruga. Both the sisters also performed many classical concerts. Their film songs were relatively lesser in numbers but many of them were hits. This duet from the film Padikkatha Methai is one of her most popular ones with TMS.

    • K Jamuna Rani

    Mama Mama Mama-Kumudam-1961-K V Mahadevan- A Maruthakasi

    If a single song could lead to a music director being accorded a nick name, this was it! The popularity of this song made everyone call K V Mahadevan as “ Mama” endearingly. An infectious tempo and rhythm make this an evergreen song, no doubt made even more memorable by the stunning rendition by TMS & Jamuna Rani. Jamuna Rani had sung in many languages like Tamil, Sinhala, Telugu , Kannada etc and was active during right from 40’s to 50’s . After a long hiatus , she rendered a song for Ilayaraja in the film Nayakan in 1987-Naan Sirithal Deepavali

    • L R Eashwari

    1.Pavazhakodiyile Muthukkal Poothal-Panam Padaithavan-1965-Vishwanathan Ramamoorthy-Vaali

    After P Susheela, TMS must have sung the maximum number of duets with L R Eashwari. LRE was knows for her versatility, the natural vibrato in her voice made her unique. Film world generally typecasts a singer  into a particular genre-she was preferred more for peppy , cabaret songs though she was equally good singing pathos, romantic and even devotional songs.

    A song in which one singer only does humming may not be strictly called a duet , but I included  this masterpiece by LR Eashwari not only for TMS’ brilliant rendition , but equally for the haunting humming by LRE. A superb Arabian style composition by  mellisai mannargal.

    2. Muthu Kulikka Vareegala Anubavi Raja Anubavi-1967-M S Vishwanthan -Kannadasan

      MSV created a fusion of folk, a middle-eastern music and even some elements of a classical raagam in this very popular and peppy number. Written by the Kaviarasar in the regional dialect of Tirunelveli-Thoothukudi , this is an absolute gem of a song. TMS & LRE create the perfect vocals for the on-screen antics of the veterans Nagesh & Manorama.

      Trivia:the catchy  rhythm had  even inspired the music director in North, R D Burman, himself a master of rhythms,  to re-create this song for the Hindi film Do Phool in 1973 ( that was also a remake of the Tamil film Anubavi Raja Anubavi).

      3. Thulluvatho Ilamai-Kudiyiruntha Kovil-1968-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

        Personally , I would rate this as the best ever duet of TMS & LRE. Once again , MSV comes out with a scintillating composition and orchestration . The initial part of the song is fully dominated by LRE and then in the second charanam, TMS makes a grand entry . The energy in this song is unbeatable. Observe the way TMS adds an extra stress on the word “ Ilamai”-brilliant!

        4. Naam Oruvarai Oruvar-Kumari Kottam-1971-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

          One more popular duet of TMS & LRE-the vibrato that LRE is so famous for comes out so prominently at the end of each charanam.

          S Janaki

            1. Kathalin Pon Veediyil -Pookkari-1973-M S Vishwanathan-Panchu Arunachalam

            Of course , the best duet of TMS with S Janaki was in an old film -Kungumam made in 1963-Chinnanchiriya Vanna Paravai composed by K V Mahadevan. Since I had mentioned in detail about this song in my blogs on K V Mahadevan and S Janaki, I had to skip that here.

            The number duets that TMS had with S Janaki may be less but most of them are great songs. Both are well-known for the ease in which they travel the higher notes and so when they sing together it is sheer magic.

            2. Anthapurathil Oru Maharaja-Deepam-1977-Ilayaraja-Pulamaipithan

              Ilayaraja and TMS worked only during the former’s  early days.  Music taste had changed , the main actors for whom TMS sang-MGR & Sivaji were also acting in lesser films , with former entering into  politics in a big way and becoming the chief minister of Tamil Nadu. It  was the era of young singers SPB & KJY –TMS had started taking bow after 1980 after a long innings of around 25 years. In those 25 years , he had truly dominated the Tamil film music , like a colossus.

              This memorable duet with S Janaki is definitely the best from Ilayaraja for TMS.

              Vani Jayaram

                Andavan Illa Ulagamethu-Oru Oothappoo Kanchimittugirathu-1976-V Dakshinamurthy-Ra Pazhanisami

                With Vani Jayaram, TMS’ duets may be in single digits . Composed by the great music director  V Dakshinamurthy , this was for an off-beat film and hence may not have topped the charts.

                ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

                His duets with other male playback singers

                When it comes to male-male duets, these are as such rarer as compared to male-female duets and in case of TMS , many would remember only  his duets with Seerkazhi Govindarajan and P B Sreenivas. To my surprise, I could discover some rare ones he sung with other male singers apart from these two and I have tried to  list few songs here.

                Tiruchi Loganathan

                  Maanamellam Pona Pin-Aaravalli-G Ramanathan-1957-A Maruthakasi

                  There must be only a handful of songs by TMS & Tiruchi Loganathan. In this film , Tiruchi Loganathan had around seven songs , with his Chinna kutii Nathana Sillaraya Mathina being a popular one. TMS had only one song in this film  -those were the days when TMS was just making his career and Tiruchi Loganathan was already an established singer. The charm of the music from golden era lies in the fact that even obscure songs, rarely heard are so nice!

                  • J P Chandrababu

                  Aathukku Palam Avasiyam-Pathini Deivam-1957-Vishwanathan Ramamoorthy-Thanjai N Ramaiha Das

                  I had never heard this song earlier and never knew that TMS and Chandrababu had sung together. A rare song but a simple , delightful tune from the early days of Vishwanathan-Ramamoorthy.

                  • A L Raghavan

                  Kayame Idhu Poyyada-Kumudam-1961-K V Mahadevan

                  I could not believe TMS singing for M R Radha -what a superb voice modulation . In between the song there are few dialogues by M R Radha and then immediately TMS continues the song and everyone knows what a distinct voice M R Radha had-TMS modulates his voice so well. A playback singer’s main strength is to get into the actor’s tone and TMS was a true master in that.  A L Raghavan sings for an actor A Rama Rao and both have done an extra-ordinary job. It is a pity that songs like this have completely faded away from the popular domain.

                  • Seerkazhi Govindarajan

                  Kasikku Pogum Sanyasi-Chandrodayam-1966-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

                  I had written about the epic TMS-Seerkazhi duet “ Vendriduven Unnai Vendriduven “ from the film Agastiyar in two of  my blogs earlier and hence did not want to repeat it here. There cannot be any doubt at all that it is one of the masterpieces by them. Here is a light-hearted one picturized on MGR and Nagesh.

                  • P B Sreenivas
                  1. Pon Ondru Kanden-Padithal Mattum Pothuma-1962-Vishwanathan Ramamoorthy-Kannadasan

                  To  this day, this song is being recreated by many singers in various events / social media channels. The popularity of immortal songs like this can never fade away. Beautiful , meaningful lyrics, a pleasing , catchy tune with that typical shehnai of V-R , combined with a superb rendition by the two great legends-TMS & PBS-what more do we need?

                  2. Nallavan Enakku Naane Nallavan-Padithaal Mattum Pothuma-1962-Vishwanathan Ramamoorthy-Kannadasan

                  From the same film , this is relatively less heard, maybe due to the immense popularity of “ Pon Ondru Kanden” song. Interspersed with a folksy touch in between ( I could not find out who had sung that portion), this song has a different flavour as compared to Pon Ondru Kanden.

                  3. Vazhndu Parkavendum-Shanti-1965-Vishwanathan Ramamoorthy-Kannadasan

                  The TMS solo song from the move Shanti-Yaar Antha Nilavu is a masterpiece . Here is a delightful duet by TMS & PBS from the same film  that may be lesser-known but is nice to hear even after decades.

                  4. Kannan Vanthan Yengal-Ramu-1966- M S Vishwanathan-Kannadasan

                  TMS makes an entry only towards the last charanam , but both the legendary singers , whenever they sing together, elevate the song to a different level.

                  5. Paadinal Oru Paatu-Oru Thai Makkal-1971- M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

                  Muthuraman had acted with MGR in very few films-this is one of them. Typical MSV’s orchestration , with the delightful contrast in voices of TMS & PBS.

                  S P Balasubrahmanyam

                    Naalai Namathe-Naalai Namathe-1975-M S Vishwanathan-Vaali

                    Whenever MSV had to re-create a song from a hit Hindi film , it is said that he used to feel a bit uncomfortable. But the greatness in him was that he never copied the tune and made his own innovations in a such manner that the overall feel was the same , but in a completely different tune. A true genius! This is the Tamil version of the  famous Yaadon Ki Baraat Nikli Hai Aaj from the Hindi film Yaadon Ki Baraat .

                    SPB and  K J Yesudas were gradually taking over the top position in Tamizh film music from the veteran TMS …but the spark in TMS was still alive and glowing as brilliantly as ever.

                    K J Yesudas

                      Imathotta Manivizhi Irandukkum-Unakkaga Naan-1976-M S Vishwanathan-Kannadasan

                      Once again a remake film, this one from the Amitab Bachchan -Rajesh Khanna starrer Namak Haram. The Hindi film did not have any male-male duet song and this was an innovation in the Tamizh version-thankfully we got to hear TMS & KJY together -could be their only duet.

                      Acknowledgements and Disclaimer:
                      The songs mentioned are from the popular, public domain and have been embedded here   only for the listening pleasure of the music lovers. The photograph is taken from the internet, duly recognizing the full copyrights for the same to the  original creator or the site where they were originally displayed .This blog does not claim any copyright over them, which rests with the respective owners of the rights

                      Hindi film songs

                      Ganamani P. Leela- a singer very few may remember now

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                      19th May  1934 -31st Oct 2005

                      When someone takes the name of noted playback singer P Leela today, I think a majority may not be knowing her or even confuse her with the more popular P Susheela. True to the main idea behind this blogsite, I am trying to write about  all such forgotten artists so that at least in future their names and contribution to film music will always be remembered.

                      P Leela had a different voice that was both melodious and had a majestic ring that  suited Carnatic classical , folk, and of course the light music genres for films. She has  sung around 5000 songs in all the south Indian languages -her native Malayalam, Tamil , Telugu , Kannada and in other regional languages of India. She was given the titles  Ganamani, Ganavarshini, Kalarathnam etc among many others.

                      In the 1950’s & 60’s she had sung extensively in Tamil films and of course in other languages also , but my knowledge  is restricted to the Tamil film songs and so I will try to make a humble attempt to write about some of her great solos and duets. It has indeed been a great experience for me, mostly ignorant about many great artists of the golden era of Tamil music , to discover their songs.

                      Porayath Leela was born in Chittoor, Palakkad district of Kerala to V K Kunjanmenon Menon and Porayath Meenakshi Amma. She was the youngest among three daughters-Sharadha, Bhanumathi and Leela. Her father was a teacher in Ramavarma Higher Secondary School , Ernakulam . It was her father who inspired her to learn music and her first guru for Carnatic classical  music was Thiribuvana Manibhagavadhar, the uncle of musician T. V. Gopalakrishnan. Later on she was trained by many other vidwans like Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagawathar, Paththamadai Krishna Ayyar, Maruthuvakudi Rajagopala Iyer, and Rama Bhagavathar. On the advice of the headmistress of the school where Leela was studying , her father took her to Madras ( as it was known at that time) in the year 1944 and she learnt music like in a gurukulam under the tutelage of Vadakkancheri Ramabagavathar in Mylapore.

                      In the year 1948 , Leela got her first break as a playback singer in the film Kanganam that had music composed by Padmanabha Sastry. In the same year she also sang in the Malayalam movie Nirmala . By the 50’s she started singing in almost all the south Indian languages.

                      In an era when stalwarts well-versed in  Carnatic classical music  like M S Subbalakshmi , M L Vasanthakumari  & D. K. Pattammal were singing for films also, it was  P Leela’s immense talent and versatility that enabled her to create a name for herself. Leela could sing a song that had pure Carnatic classical base  -Kathiruppan Kamala Kannan , a folk song with the right accent and intonation- Thazhayam Poo Mudichu)  , a westernized tune- Raja Magal Roja Malar that had an Arabian feel, a folk and classical touch all in one song  , an intensely moving   female version of Endru Thaniyum Intha Suthantira dagam etc. For almost 20 years , starting from the late 40’s till late 60’s she was active in Tamil films. Of course in Malayalam she was one of the most prolific  singers and was quite active till the late 70’s.

                      When the Guruvayoor Dewaswom decided to bring out the album Narayaneeyam (Bhagavata Purana in poetic form composed by Melpathur Narayana Bhattathiri, a celebrated Sanskrit poet of Kerala in 16th century) , names of several musicians like M.S. Subbalakshmi , M.L. Vasanthakumari  were considered and finally the Dewaswom approved P Leela to sing Narayaneeyam. “I got the chance to sing Guruvayarappan Narayaneeyam which I consider as an honour…”said Leela.

                      Known for her humility , in spite of being a very successful singer in all southern language films , she spent her later years with her nephews and nieces and focused more on classical concerts and light music programs. Unfortunately her marriage with a lawyer was not successful. During her lifetime she got many awards from various southern states , including the Kalaimamani award from Tamil Nadu, but as it always happens , the government of India awarded her the Padma Bhushan , posthumously in 2006.

                      An example of her humility and kind-heartedness was her gesture of suggesting the name of S Janaki, who was at that time still trying to make it big in Tamil films ,  for the masterpiece Singara Velana Deva in the film Konjum Salangai -a song that warranted matching the high octaves of Karakurichi Arunachalam’s nadaswaram. Very few in the music world would help a competitor!

                      The former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu , Jayalalitha had paid a glowing tribute to her after her demise:

                       “One of the greatest vocal musicians of India, who made a name for herself by singing exquisite songs in her mellifluous voice in Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu both for the film industry, as well as in Carnatic music. She had also rendered melodious devotional songs. Though she had been decorated with a number of awards including the Kalaimamani Award of the State Government for 1991-92, she was the epitome of humility and considered her contributions in the field of music a humble service to humanity and an offering to the Lord. In her passing, we have lost a great singer, leaving a great void in the world of music.”

                      With the limited knowledge that I have about her repertoire , I have selected 25 best songs by her , arranged in chronological order with the song , film , year, co-singers, music director and lyricist mentioned in that order.

                      1. Amaidiyillatha Maname Yen Maname-Pathala Bhairavi-1951-Duet with Ghantasala-Ghantasala-Thanjai N Ramaiah Dass

                      A lilting romantic melody, with that typical majestic voice of Leela complementing Ghantasala , with whom she had sung so many songs in Telugu. The tunes of the 50’s had their own sweet charm.

                      2. Perinbame Vaazhvile Endrume-Devaki-1951-Duet with Tiruchi Loganathan-G Ramanathan-A Maruthakasi

                      I tried to get a good quality link to this song, but was unable to do so. A song that has so much energy bursting forth, composed by the veteran G Ramanathan, who had given so many memorable songs for P Leela. And what to say about Tiruchi Loganathan-whatever he sang were superb!

                      One interesting thing about this film is that , it is picturized on V M Janaki, who was the wife of late M G Ramachandran and was  the heroine in the film.

                      3. Ellaam Inbamayam-Manamagal-1951-M.L Vasanthakumari & P Leela-C.R Subbaraman-Udumalai Narayanakavi

                      C R Subbaraman was a legendary composer who had nurtured one more genius in Tamil film music-our own Mellisai Mannar MSV! The song Ellam Inbamayam is a great classical composition by C R Subbaraman, sung by M L Vasanthakumari and P Leela , and picturised on Padmini , in her debut film and her sister Lalitha. It is rare to see a song picturized with so many shots . It is said that the veteran actor-comedian , N S Krishnan who had produced and directed this film , had introduced all the technicians involved at the end credits of the film-definitely a unique concept for 1951! Note how P Leela has rendered this so well , singing with an established Carnatic classical singer like M L Vasanthakumari. Such songs will remain for posterity and it was truly a great experience for me to listen to this song after so many years.

                      4. Yaanai Thandham Pole-Amarakavi -1952-Duet with M.K. Thyagaraja Bhagawathar-G Ramanathan-Suratha

                      After the infamous Lakshmikanthan case , the legendary M K Thyagaraja Bhagavathar did act in few films , but unfortunately they were not super successful ones as compared to the 40’s which was the zenith of his career. However when  listen to  this song, we wonder why songs like this did not become famous. A superb composition , composed  by G Ramanathan , sung so well by P Leela and MKT. Note the innovative counter-melody created by G Ramanathan at the end of the song when P Leela does a humming that goes counter to the main song.

                      5. Konji Pesum Kiliye- Amarakavi -1952-Duet with MKT-G Ramanathan-Suratha

                      One more hidden gem from the same film -note how P Leela matches the high octaves of MKT so effortlessly. The song sounds deceptively simple but if you listen carefully , you can discover what intricate notes have been weaved in by GR and how both the singers have rendered them so well.

                      6. Vaaranam Aayiram Soozha Valam Seidhu -Thooku Thooki-1954- Duet with M.L. Vasanthakumari – G Ramanathan- Nachiyar Thirumozhi by Aandal

                      Thooki film is known for bringing together the two legends -Sivaji Ganesan and TMS together. Although the song Sundar Soundari Nirandariye is more popular, I have selected another song as the former is sung together by Leela & A. P Komala whereas the Vaaranam Aayiram Soozha Valam Seidhu has once again MLV and P Leela rendering a superb song in their typical classical style. The lyrics are from the literary works of Aandal , a devotee of Vishnu, composed in the 8th century. She is the only woman Aalwar among the twelve great devotees of Lord Vishnu.

                      7. Vaarayo Vennilaave -Missiamma-1955-Duet with AM Rajah-S Rajeshwara Rao-Thanjai N Ramaiah Das

                      Among the songs in this list, I think this one must be known to most of the readers. An evergreen melody composed by S Rajeshwara Rao with that mandolin being supreme in the orchestration.  Beautifully picturized on Gemini Ganesan and Savitri, songs like this  will remain evergreen for  centuries.  

                      • 8. Therinthu Kollanum Penne-Missiamma-1955- S Rajeshwara Rao-Thanjai N Ramaiah Das

                      This song is surprisingly not that much popular in spite of having a superb piano playing throughout the song ( I understand that Piano was played by one Ramachandran Diwakar). It is very rare to see a song picturized with the leading lady playing a piano in our films.

                      9. Mayame Naan Ariyen- Missiamma-1955- S Rajeshwara Rao-Thanjai N Ramaiah Das

                      The film Missiamma and Vanjikottai Valiban had some of the best songs from P Leela. Only after listening closely to P Leela’s songs, I realized how she was able to mould her voice to different genres. It is really a pity that she was not utilized more in Tamil films ; of course I do not have anything against her illustrious contemporaries like P Susheela & S Janaki who are great artists without any doubt. This is only a longing that we could have enriched the treasure of the golden era with more of P Leela’s songs also.

                      10. Vaanga Machan Vaanga-Madurai Veeran-1956-Solo & Duet versions (with TMS) -G Ramanathan- Thanjai N Ramaiah Das

                        If one listens to this song immediately after listening to the one in S. No 9, my observation must be ringing true. The way she adapts  to a  folk style in Vaanga Machan Vaanga is something truly amazing. There are two versions -the first one has P Leela dominating the first part only to handover the baton to another legend, TMS who elevates the song to an even higher level. The second link has a solo version by Leela.

                        11. Aaha Inba Nilavinile Oho Jagame -Maya Bazaar-1957-Duet with Ghantasala- Ghantasala- Thanjai N Ramaiah Das

                          One of the most entertaining films from the yesteryears, May Bazaar also had superb music. Although S Rajeshwara Rao was originally signed up , he left the film after composing 4 songs due to some differences , it was Ghantasala who completed the major part of the film. A soothing melody, with a scenic boat ride on a moonlit ride , the gentle voices of Ghantasala and P Leela take you into a tranquil world.

                          12. Kannudan Kalandhidum Subadhiname- Maya Bazaar-1957-Duet with Ghantasala- S Rajeshwara Rao- Thanjai N Ramaiah Das

                            One more duet by the P Leela and Ghantasala that has a pleasing melody from the blockbuster film Maya Bazaar.

                            13. Neeyegadhi Eeswari-Annayin Aaanai-1958- S.M Subbaiah Naidu-A Maruthakasi

                              Although I am not an expert in identifying the classical raagas, I understand this song is set on Charukesi raagam. An excellent rendition by P Leela , with so much of devotion and emotion that she has given to the song , especially at the high octaves in the charanam .

                              14. Thai porantha vazhi porakkum-Thai Piranthal Vazhi Pirakkum-1958- T. M. Soundararajan, P. Leela, S. V. Ponnusamy & L. R. Eswari-K.V Mahadevan-A Maruthakasi

                                Almost everyone in Tamil Nadu would be familiar with this song that is invariably played in radio on Pongal festival , the beginning of the Tamil month “ Thai.” No one would ever believe that P Leela’s mother tongue was not Tamil, when we listen to her songs-she sang with a perfect accent , more so when singing such folk songs that give a flavour of the rural life in Tamil Nadu.

                                15. Kathiruppan Kamala Kannan-Uthamaputhiran-1958-G Ramanathan- T K Sundara Vadyar

                                  Right at the beginning of the song, by hearing that typical beat of tabla , we can understand it is the legendary  G Ramanathan’s composition. And who else to render a classic raagamilka song other than P Leela . Her mastery is evident throughout the song. It is a raagamalika consisting of Saramati, Tilang  and Mohanam raagas.

                                  16. Kondattan Mansukkule Kondattam-Uthamaputhiran-1958-G Ramanathan- K.S Gopalakrishnan

                                    You can discover the versatility of Leela’s singing when you listen to this  this song. Effortlessly she renders this fast -paced peppy number, with so much of energy!

                                    17. Kannun Kannum Kalanthu-Vanjikottai Valiban-1958-Duet with Jikki -C Ramachandra-Kothamangalam Subbu

                                      I had covered this song in detail in my blog “ A musical journey-Tamil film music” and in  that I had focused more on the music director C Ramachandra and his outstanding orchestration . P Leela brings the right classicism to Padmini’s dance while another legend , Jikki ( P Krishnaveni) provides an equal counter-point by lending her vocals to Vyjanthimala’s dance. One can write pages about this song that is well known to every one interested in old Tamil songs, but I do not know how many would be remembering the singers who gave us this wonderful song.

                                      18. Raja Magal Roja malar- Vanjikottai Valiban-1958-C Ramachandra-Kothamangalam Subbu

                                        From the same film , here is one  hidden gem , that somehow remained a distant second to Kannum Kalanthu . While the latter was a duet with Jikki, in this song it is all the way P Leela who has rendered one of her all-time great songs. The song consists of three different parts with each one in a different genre that only a genius like C Ramachandra can think of. Starting off with an Arabian style , the song in the next part shifts to a typical folk genre and then moves on to a sort of westernized classical waltz and finally comes back to Raja Magal Roja Malar. P Leela proves her prowess in all the three styles and comes up with an immortal song. Those who are listening to this for the first time are bound to listen repeatedly in a loop!

                                        19. Vennilave Thanmathiye- Vanjikottai Valiban-1958-C Ramachandra-Kothamangalam Subbu

                                          One more gem from Vanjikottai Valiban , this time a sober and soft melody that caresses you with a mellifluous P Leela’s voice.

                                          20. Thazhayam Poo Mudichu- Bhaga Pirivinai-1959- Duet with TMS -Vishwanathan Ramamoorthy-Kannadasan

                                          It is surprising that we  have a popular song of P Leela under the music direction of Mellisai Mannargal Vishwanathan-Ramamoorthy only in the year 1959 ! Although she had been singing for them right from Genova film (1954) and then in few films also in between, to the best of my research , I could not find any popular song in this combination. But what a great song this is! With just 3-4 instruments V-R composed a masterpiece of folk song that would always be listed at the top whenever one tries to make a list of best Tamil film songs in the folk genre. P Leela’s diction is so perfect to suit a typical village girl , with the veteran TMS adding his own charm.

                                          21. Aanai Mugathone-Pillayar Kovilukku- Bhaga Pirivinai-1959- Duet with TMS -Vishwanathan Ramamoorthy-Pattukottai Kalyanasundaram

                                          Honestly, I listened to this song for the first time only while working on this blog. Many songs from the film Bhaga Pirivinai were quite popular but somehow I had not listened to this earlier. A friendly teasing between the hero , Sivaji Ganesan, and a group of village girls, beautifully written by Pattukottai Kalyana Sundaram and superbly rendered by TMS & Leela. Not to miss the enactment on screen by the legend Sivaji.

                                          22. Konjum Salangai Olikettu- Konjum Salangai-1962-S.M Subbaiah Naidu-Kannadasan

                                          Although S Janaki’s life-time best song Singara Velane deva is the most popular song from this film, this one is equally mesmerizing.  A scintillating dance number composed by the veteran S M Subbaiah Naidu and rendered by Leela in her typical style.

                                          23. Nilave Nee Intha-Pattinathar-1962-Duet with TMS-G Ramanathan-T.K Sundara Vathyar

                                          I keep discovering so many unheard gems while working on my blogs. That is the greatest reward for me! Note when TMS sings for himself on screen, the voice sounds so different from his songs for MGR or Sivaji! And what to say about Leela? She has moulded her voice to suit the mood of the song , proving that she was one of the foremost playback singers.

                                          24. Mugam Paarthathu  Pothatha-Tiruneelakandar-1972- C.N Pandurangan-Kannadasan

                                          By the 70’s , the number of songs by Leela in Tamil films had reduced drastically, with MSV mostly composing songs with P Susheela or L R Eashwari and rarely S Janaki. The music composer C N Pandurangan is relatively lesser known , but I understand he had composed for 40 films in a career spanning 30 years. Despite being immensely talented commercial success evaded him and hence he is almost unknown today. This rare song in 1972 has P Leela singing with the same fervour. Once again a classical melody.

                                          25. Sree Shiva Sutha -Karpoora Mullai-1991-Ilayaraja-Ilayaraja(?)

                                          I was totally surprised to note that Leela had sung for Ilayaraja! Knowledgeable readers may comment if there was any other song in Tamil from these two. This song is from an obscure film Karpoora Mullai that was  a remake or rather dubbed version of the Malayalam film  Ente Suryaputhriku ( the link to the song also mentions that film only) . Even more surprising to note is that the song is mostly in Sanskrit and lyrics  has been credited to Ilayaraja. It is supposed to be based on a very rare raaga-Rukumambari. Note how at the age of  57 , Leela has rendered this so nicely.

                                          Acknowledgements and Disclaimer:

                                          I sincerely thank the publishers of following  Internet sources   for the information that I could gather for this article:

                                          1. You Tube
                                          2. Wikipedia
                                          3. Ms Subashree Thanikachalam’s QFR series in YouTube

                                          The songs mentioned are from the popular, public domain and have been embedded here   only for the listening pleasure of the music lovers. This blog does not claim any copyright over them, which rests with the respective owners of the rights The photograph is taken from the internet, duly recognizing the full copyrights for the same to the  original creator or the site where they were originally displayed .This blog does not claim any copyright over them, which rests with the respective owners of the rights.

                                          Hindi film songs

                                          Pioneer of Tamil Playback Singing-Tiruchi Loganathan

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                                          24th July 1924-17th November  1989

                                          The early years of Tamil film music was dominated by those male & female actors who were also good singers. In fact, if anyone wanted to get into acting , they had to be singers too. M.K Thyagaraja Bhagawatar , P.U Chinnappa, K B Sundarambal, N.C Vasantha Kokilam etc are some of the names one could think of. Towards the late 40’s,   a new trend started  when some of the actors who were not basically  singers got to “ sing” them on screen with the help of playback singers. Although I am not a qualified film historian, from what I could learn from various sources , in the 1947 film Rajakumari , M.M Mariappa and his cousin Tiruchi Loganathan  became the first male playback singers . Mariappa was also a stage actor and he  sang few songs for the emerging  star M.G Ramachandran ,  who had his first  lead role in this film  and went on to dominate not only Tamil films , but politics for a very long time. In that film,  for  M.N Nambiar,  Tiruchi Loganathan  sang Kattinile Naangal Vazhvathe -a duet with K.V Janaki who was the first female playback singer in Tamil films. So, it could be said the in all probability Tiruchi Loganathan was truly the first male playback singer in Tamil films.

                                          The decade of 1950’s was a happening time with many legendary singers making their mark like T. M Soundararajan, P.B Sreenivas, A.M Rajah, Seerkazhi Govindarajan etc. Before these singers could make a name for themselves ,  it was  Tiruchi Loganathan who established himself as a leading playback singer. The  number of songs he had sung may be lesser in terms of quantity, but many of the songs he rendered became iconic and are remembered even after 70+ years . Some of us may not know  the singer who sang  Vaarai Nee Vaarai, Aasaiye Alaipole, Velli Panimalayin Meedulavuvom but definitely these songs are well known to us.  Tiruchi Loganathan’s birth centenary year , 2024 has almost passed on without much talk about him. When I did my usual search in the Internet for this blog, I was pained to note  woefully inadequate articles  about him.

                                          Ever since I started my blogs, the greatest satisfaction I get is the opportunity to listen to a multitude  of singers. To be honest , except for 4 to 5 songs of Tiruchi Loganathan , I have not listened to many . The sheer variety he has demonstrated by singing patriotic, comical, sad, philosophical, and romantic songs is no less than many other playback singers who had become quite successful. I fail to understand why he did not sing after the early 60’s. He was alive till 1989 and as per whatever information I could dig out, he seems to have completely faded away after the 60’s. Maybe it was his own choice to take an early retirement. However his sons became playback singers like Deepan Chakravarthy, & T.L Maharajan,

                                          There are many anecdotes about him and he comes out as a person who was not primarily  after money . When he was offered to sing a song for the hero in a film , after having sung 4 songs for the comedian , he refused,  stating it would not be appropriate and instead  introduced his friend Seerkazhi Govindarajan. Also, for the film Kappalottiya Tamizhan, he refused to take any remuneration as he was basically a freedom-fighter  and felt it was not right  to take money for this film. His generosity  reminds me of another legendary singer , incidentally born in the same year, 1924-Mohammad Rafi!

                                          Tiruchi Loganathan ( for simplicity I will henceforth mention as TL) was born to Subramania Achari, in a family of traditional goldsmiths, and did not have any formal education. The family business also did not  interest him and his mind was on music. Fortunately,  his father noticed his keen interest in music and encouraged him . The young TL went on to perform musical plays along with his cousin M. M Mariappa and also learnt music under the tutelage of Nataraja Pillai , a noted  music guru.

                                          After his debut in the 1947 film Rajakumari, in the 1948 film Abhimanyu, TL sang a duet with U.R Jeevarathnam “ Pudhu vasanthamaame vaazhvile’. There is an interesting story behind this  song . It was composed by the young  M.S Vishwanathan who, at that time,  was just an errand boy in Jupiter Pictures and S.M Subbaiah Naidu was the music composer for the film. When SMS was trying to compose the tune and had taken a break , MSV tuned the song and was playing it on the harmonium . When SMS entered the studio, he was frightened initially, but SMS liked the tune and recorded the song and only after the song became popular , announced that it was tuned by the young MSV!! If he had initially mentioned that it was composed by an inexperienced boy , the song could have got rejected! Listen to that song that could be MSV’s first composed song!!
                                           

                                          Then came the 1950 film Manthiri Kumari , and with the immortal song “ Vaarai Nee Vaarai, there was no looking back for Tiruchi Loganathan . The film makers were somewhat apprehensive about this song that featured towards  the end of the film as an afterthought . On release , the producer & director were surprised to note that this song was in everyone’s lips and so it was retained! The same film had one more gem of a song by him “ Ulavum Thendral Kaatrinile” , once again , a duet with noted singer  Jikki.

                                          In the next few years TL became a much sought-after singer for his clear Tamil diction and voice modulation : just note how he rendered Adikkara Kai Thaan Anaikkum in a ‘tipsy’ style, with a perfect hiccup or the famous demonic laugh in ‘Kalyana Samayal Saatham’!. The songs featured in my list below , showcase the immense variety in TL’s singing. With the limited knowledge that I have in general about Tamil film music and specifically about Tiruchi Loganathan, I have tried to compile few of his best songs . These are sequenced in chronological order of the film’s release , with song-film-year-music director-lyricist -co-singer mentioned in that order.

                                          • Vaarai Nee Vaarai-Manthiri Kumari -1950-G Ramanathan-A Maruthakasi-Duet with Jikki

                                          The first song that would come to anyone’s mind if we mention the name  Tiruchi Loganathan . A superb tune, orchestrated in G Ramanthan’s inimitable style and sung by TL with a tinge of that villainy appropriate for the situation of the song. It is supposed to be one of those rare songs where the entire sequence was shot earlier and the song was written and composed later. Although the actual hero in the film was the veteran MGR , this was picturized on S.A Natarajan, playing an anti-hero  role. He takes the heroine to the top of a hill with an intention to push her -note the lyrics that Maruthakasi had written with a hidden meaning to an apparently romantic song!

                                          • Ulavum thendral kaatrinile- Manthiri Kumari -1950-G Ramanathan-A Maruthakasi-Duet with Jikki

                                          This is another gem from the same movie. Note the change in TL’s singing as he switches to a more romantic tone as compared to “ Vaarai”…The song is  beautifully written, composed like a waltz by the veteran G Ramanathan  and sung in a question-answer format. Note how TL places so much of stress in the lines “ Ithayam antha malaikku yethu ” or “ Unathu Kadaikkan Paarvai kaatum” ! We see the early signs of how he refined the art of  playback singing !

                                          • Koovamal Koovum Kokilam-Vaira Maalai-1954-Vishwanathan -Ramamoorthy-Kannadasan-Duet with M.L. Vasanthakumari

                                          I do not know why  the famous musical duo Vishwanathan-Ramamoorthy did not utilize the talents of TL much. Maybe after they discovered TMS who became the de-facto voice for both the leading stars MGR & Sivaji Ganesan , they could not give much opportunities to TL . This is one of their  early compositions and is picturized on  R.S Manohar, more famous for his magnificent mythological dramas and mostly in negative roles in later films. Picturized in the beautiful Lal Bagh garden in Bengaluru , this is also visually a charming song with a simple delightful tune.

                                          • Vanjamitho Vaanjai Itho-Vaira Maalai-1954-Vishwanathan-Ramamoorthy-Kanaga Surabhi-Duet with M.L Vasanthakumari

                                          The same film Vaira Maalai has one more beautiful duet by TL & MLV. Observe how TL has sung this with a soft , romantic tone and contrast this with his other songs that will be coming up in my list.  Truly he was a pioneer in playback singing!

                                          • Kalyana Samayal saadam-Maya Bazaar-1957-Ghantasala-Thanjai N  Ramaiah Dass

                                          One of the most popular songs of TL! A delight for both music lovers and food lovers! That laugh is something fabulous that TL rendered so nicely. This tune is basically an inspired one ( from  The laughing Policeman by Charles Penrose ) but in my very humble opinion, both Ghantasala , the music composer and TL , the singer,  have to be complimented  for elevating the song to a different level. Also, we should not forget the veteran S.V Ranga Rao for enacting the role of Ghatotkachan so nicely. The film Maya Bazaar remains a masterpiece till today remembered for its excellent photography.

                                          • Chinnakutti nathana chillaraye-Aaravalli-1957-G. Ramanathan-Pattukottai Kalyanasundaram

                                          This is was a pleasant discovery for me while researching for the blog! What playful lyrics by Pattukottaiyar in this typical folk song and I am truly amazed to observe how the supremely talented TL has demonstrated so many genres within  the limited number of songs  he sang!

                                          • Aasaiye alaipole-Thai Pirantha Vazhi Pirakkum-1958-K.V Mahadevan-Kannadasan

                                          Definitely among the topmost hits of TL , I had also mentioned this song in my blog on K.V Mahadevan. From the romantic to the comic and now a philosophical TL ! The lines by Kaviarasar tuned so exquisitely by KVM are brought to life by TL’s superb rendition with a flawless diction. Each and every line and word are ‘chiselled’ by him while singing. That special alaapanai in the last charanam , after the line “soorai kaatru veesinal thoni ottam mevumo” and at the end of the song are simply out of the world.

                                          • Purushan veetil vazha pogum penne-Paanai Pidithaval Bhagyashali-1958-S.V Venkataraman- T.K Sundara Vadyar

                                          It is said that those days ,in villages of TN, every wedding had this  song played . Today feminists may consider the lines a bit male-dominated , but we are talking about TL’s singing-just note how, as a brother he provides  advice to his  newly married sister . The anecdote I had mentioned in the introduction about TL introducing Seerkazhi Govindarajan to the producer for the hero’s song was pertaining to this film.

                                          • Cycle varuthu cycle varuthu-Neelavukku Neranja Manasu-1958-K.V.Mahadevan-A. Maruthakasi-Duet with L.R Eashwari

                                          One more example of TL’s comical style , this time for the evergreen comedian Thangavelu. Did this song give Thangavelu the prefix to his name “ Danal Thangavel” ?

                                          Danaaal nu adikkara bellum sariya illeenge! As the perfect playback singer , he modulates his voice to suit Thangavelu to a tee!

                                          • Originality Osantha Quality- Neelavukku Neranja Manasu-1958-K.V.Mahadevan-A.S.Narayanan

                                          I wonder why some songs we did not hear at all  in so many decades! I consider myself to be an avid listener of old Hindi and Tamil songs and I am sure I have never heard this before. One can never imagine KVM , more famous for his classical based songs, coming out with such a peppy comical song . TL does full justice to the composition . Please do not  miss the superb rock & roll style orchestration at the end. Truly a rocking number! Incidentally the lady who plays the role of grandmother in the song , C.T.Rajakantham is TL ‘s mother-in-law!.

                                          • Adikkira kai than anaikum-Vannakili-1959-K.V.Mahadevan-A. Maruthakasi-Duet with P Susheela

                                          TL proves he is no less when rendering a tipsy song , with a perfect hiccup adding to the charm. A rare duet of TL with the nightingale P Susheela. Once again I am tempted to compare TL with my favourite singer Mohammad Rafi who used to sing those ‘ sharabi’ type of songs so beautifully .

                                          • Ooraar urungaiyile-Naalu Veli Nilam-1959-K.V Mahadevan & M.K Atmanathan-Folk song-Duet with L.R Eswari

                                          One more hidden gem that I discovered only while researching for this blog. It is sad that many such songs of TL have faded away from popular media. Thanks to YouTube we are able to discover these gems. A typical folk song sung so nicely by both TL & LRE.

                                          • Kaiyile vaaginen paiyile podale -Irumbuthirai-1960-S.V.Venkataraman- Pattukottai Kalyanasundaram

                                          The revolutionary poet Pattukottai Kalyanasundaram comes out with a beautiful philosophical song with a tinge of comedy and sadness combined , brought to life by TL’s simple but elegant singing. Thangavelu has enacted on screen so well!

                                          • Kangalum Kavipaduthey-Adutha Veetu Pen-1960-Adi Narayana Rao- Thanjai N  Ramaiah Dass-With Seerkazhi Govindarajan

                                          Almost a decade later  the team of Kishore Kumar, Manna Dey , Mehmood , RD Burman came out with the boisterous Ek Chatur Naar Karke Singaar song  in the film Padosan ( a remake of Adutha Veetu Pen)  . But it was TL and Seerkazhi who set the tone for this classical but comic masterpiece way back in 1960 itself. When two legends compete with each other , even in a comical situation , it is sheer pleasure to listen.

                                          • Velli pani malayin-Kappalottiya Tamizhan-1961-G Ramanathan-Mahakavi Subrahmanya Bharatiyaar

                                          We now come to the magnum opus of TL. Kappalottiya Tamizhan had three fantastic songs by TL , all picturised on the great Mahakavi Subramania Bharatiyar , played by veteran actor S.V. Subbaiah. There have been many films that featured songs written by the great poet and  freedom fighter but G Ramanathan’s compositions in this film are considered among the best ever on Bharatiyar’s songs. The sheer energy in this song is superbly brought out by GR’s tune and TL’s singing. TL’s close associate Seerkazhi also joins at the end of the song and makes it an evergreen song.

                                          • Yendru thaniyum intha suthanthira thaagam- Kappalottiya Tamizhan-1961-G Ramanathan-Mahakavi Subrahmanya Bharatiyaar

                                          The longing for freedom,  so nicely written by the Mahakavi is poignantly brought out in TL’s singing. There is both an element of anger or frustration and at the same time a  sense of sadness in Mahakavi’s words and if you hear it keenly , TL has brought out the emotions so finely.

                                          • Thanneer Vittom Valarthom- Kappalottiya Tamizhan-1961-G Ramanathan-Mahakavi Subrahmanya Bharatiyaar

                                          Only a truly great playback singer can render a ‘Kalyana Samayal Sadam’ and a ‘ Thanneer Vittom Valarthom’ with equal fervour. Such a contrast in style! It is said TL fainted after completing the recording of this song .

                                          To know that he refused to take remuneration for the songs in this film proves what dedicated artists we had those days.

                                          • Chinna arumbu malarum-Pangaaligal-1961-S Dakshinamurthi-A Maruthakasi

                                          I come to the end of my short compilation with a soulful lullaby sung by TL for an unlikely actor on screen. Who can ever imagine the maverick M.R.Radha singing a lullaby ! Just close your eyes and listen to this song-you can really feel as if M.R Radha is singing ( he had a very unique voice that was his trademark!). One more feather in TL’s cap-what a complete playback singer he was. Truly THE pioneer!!!

                                                     I hope I was able to do a tiny bit of my tribute to this versatile singer who definitely deserved many more songs. One interesting observation – there is not a single song in the above list where he has sung for leading actors like  MGR , Sivaji Ganesan , Gemini Ganesan etc . Could be possible that  my search was not exhaustive . Was that  one of the reasons why he faded away from the industry ? Any knowledgeable reader can comment on that….. 

                                          Acknowledgement & Disclaimer 

                                          I sincerely thank the publishers of following blogsites & Internet sources for the information that I could gather for this article:

                                          1. You Tube
                                          2. Wikipedia
                                          3. Ms. Subashree Thanikachalam’s QFR YouTube series
                                          4. Interviews with sons of Tiruchi Loganathan in YouTube

                                          The songs mentioned are from the popular, public domain and have been embedded here   only for the listening pleasure of the music lovers. This blog does not claim any copyright over them, which rests with the respective owners of the rights.