Deva: ‘His melodies will continue to resonate’: AR Rahman pays tribute to Tamil composer Deva as Sujatha Mohan remembers ‘Thenisai Thendral’s warmth during recording sessions | Tamil Movie News

Veteran Tamil music composer Deva, fondly known as ‘Thenisai Thendral’, died in Chennai on October 17 at the age of 75. Following his passing, music composer AR Rahman paid tribute to Deva, remembering how his melodies touched generations of listeners. Playback singer Sujatha Mohan also mourned the loss, recalling his wonderful sense of humour, generosity and the warmth with which he welcomed singers, including newcomers, during recording sessions.

AR Rahman pays tribute to Tamil composer Deva

AR Rahman has expressed his grief over the passing of veteran Tamil composer Deva, whose music left a lasting mark on South Indian cinema. Remembering the composer, popularly known as ‘Thenisai Thendral’, Rahman shared a photograph of the two on his X account and highlighted the enduring appeal of Deva’s melodies.Rahman wrote, “The passing of our beloved ‘Thenisai Thendral’ Deva Aiyyah brings immense sorrow. His mellifluous melodies, intertwined with the soul of Tamil music, have touched the hearts of many generations. They will continue to resonate in the times to come.”The composer also offered his condolences to Deva’s family, friends and fans. Rahman’s tribute reflected the lasting influence of Deva’s music and the affection he commanded across generations of listeners. Deva’s death was reported by The Indian Express and other publications on October 17, 2026.

Sujatha Mohan remembers Deva’s warmth and sense of humour

Playback singer Sujatha Mohan also took to Instagram to remember Deva, describing him as both an exceptional musician and a wonderful human being. Recalling their time together in recording studios, she spoke about his humour and the way he made singers feel comfortable, regardless of their experience.In her post, Sujatha wrote, “Heartbroken to hear that our dearest Deva sir is no more. Deva sir, you were not just a great musician, you were a great human being. You had a wonderful sense of humour and made us all laugh during our recording sessions.”She went on to highlight the respect Deva showed to singers and musicians, adding that even newcomers felt at ease recording under his direction.“You respected every singer and every musician, and even a newcomer felt completely at home in front of your mic. That kind of warmth is rare. Thank you for every melody, every kindness, and every smile,” she added.Sujatha’s tribute echoed the affection expressed by several members of the music and film industries, remembering Deva not only for his compositions but also for the personal warmth he brought to his work. Onmanorama reported her tribute on October 17, 2026.

Sujatha Mohan offers condolences to Deva’s family

Sujatha also remembered the music Deva leaves behind and offered prayers for his family, including his son, composer Shrikant Deva. Her message paid tribute to the legacy Deva built over a career spanning several decades, while acknowledging the personal loss his family and collaborators are experiencing.“Your songs will keep living in our hearts, and so will you. My heartfelt prayers are with Shrikant and the entire family. May God give you all the strength and courage to bear this irreplaceable loss. Rest in peace, dear #Devasir. You will be remembered with endless love, affection and respect,” she wrote.

Deva’s musical legacy across South Indian cinema

Deva, whose full name was Devanesan Chokkalingam, composed music for more than 400 films across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam cinema during a career spanning nearly four decades. He became widely known as ‘Thenisai Thendral’, a title that translates to “breeze of sweet music”.His compositions for films such as Annamalai and Baashha became closely associated with Rajinikanth’s screen persona. Deva also helped bring Chennai’s gaana music tradition into mainstream Tamil cinema, creating a distinctive musical identity that resonated with audiences.The veteran composer passed away in Chennai on October 17, 2026, at the age of 75. Reports said he had been taken to a private hospital after suffering a heart attack. The late composer’s passing has prompted tributes from colleagues, singers, actors and fans, many of whom have remembered both his musical contribution and his generosity.