Tamil playback singer Krishnaraj passes away, five days after composer Deva's death

CHENNAI: Renowned Tamil playback singer Krishnaraj Ramasamy (75) passed away while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Chennai for age-related ailments. His death comes just five days after the demise of music composer Deva, with whom he had worked extensively throughout his musical career.

Krishnaraj, who was a weaver before entering the playback singing industry in the 1990s, became popular for his folk-style singing. He won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer in 1997 for the song 'Thanjavooru Mannu Eduthu' from the film Porkkaalam, composed by Deva. The singer also gained international recognition after the song was played at the funeral of former Singapore President S.R. Nathan, following his personal wish.

Krishnaraj sang more than 3,000 songs, including devotional tracks, and worked with several generations of music directors, including Ilaiyaraaja, A.R. Rahman and Yuvan Shankar Raja. He was also honoured with the Kalaimamani award. His last rites will be held at his native Vembadithalam in Salem district at noon on Friday. He is survived by his daughters, Jeevarekha and Geethapriya. His wife, Mohanambal, predeceased him.