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Ilaiyaraaja, celebrated music composer is celebrating his birthday on June 2, with wishes pouring in from across the film industry and political circles.
While his actual birth date is June 3, the maestro observes the occasion a day earlier every year. On Tuesday, several prominent personalities, including Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, politicians MK Stalin, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, and Annamalai, paid tribute to the music icon. Fans also took to social media to celebrate the composer's remarkable journey.
Ilaiyaraaja Receives Birthday Wishes From Kamal Haasan, Vijay, MK Stalin And Others
TN CM Vijay shared a special message Ilaiyaraaja's journey from Pannaipuram in Theni district to becoming one of India's greatest composers. Vijay praised the maestro's achievements, including his historic presentation of Valiant, a Western classical symphony performed at London's Eventim Apollo Theatre. The feat made Ilaiyaraaja the first composer from Asia to present a Western classical symphony at the prestigious venue. Vijay wrote, "Born in the village of Pannaipuram in Theni district, he began his musical journey with his brothers and entered the film industry through the movie Annakili. From there, he went on to achieve numerous milestones, including creating a world-renowned symphony" read his tweet.
Recently music composer Ilaiyaraaja's Youtube channel shared a song from the 1988 film Ithu Engal Neethi on his YouTube channel, featuring a young Vijay in a child artist role. The song's lyrics about a young boy carrying a nation's hopes have sparked chatter among fans, with many linking it to Vijay's political journey through Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
Kamal Haasan hails composer's legacy
Among the first celebrities to extend wishes was Kamal Haasan, who has collaborated with Ilaiyaraaja on several iconic films over the years, including 16 Vayathinile, Nayakan, Raaja Paarvai, Apoorva Sagodharargal, Moondram Pirai, and Mahanadhi.
The actor praised the composer's legacy, mentioning that his music would continue to live on for generations while wishing him a long and healthy life filled with music. The actor-politician also wished for the composer's music to continue inspiring future generations. Former Chief Minister MK Stalin, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, BJP leader Annamalai, and several others also extended their greetings to the composer. Meanwhile, Premji Amaran, Ilaiyaraaja's nephew, shared a picture with the caption "Happy Birthday King."
Responding to the outpouring of love, Ilaiyaraaja shared a video message thanking everyone who wished him on his special day. He expressed gratitude to MK Stalin, his fan clubs, and supporters across districts who celebrated the occasion and made the day memorable.
