Renowned Playback Singer P. Jayachandran Passes Away

P. Jayachandran, affectionately known as “Bhava Gayakan,” was a celebrated playback singer whose voice resonated deeply with emotions such as love, devotion, and longing. He passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. Known for his soulful renditions across multiple languages, Jayachandran’s death has left an irreplaceable void in the Indian music industry. His extensive contribution to the world of music spanned over six decades, with more than 16,000 songs in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. His passing is mourned by music lovers and fans alike, with tributes pouring in from across the nation.

Key Highlights of P. Jayachandran

Early life and Education

• Born on March 3, 1944, in Ernakulam, Kerala, to Ravi Varma Kochaniyan Thampuran and Subhadra Kunjamma.
• He completed his graduation in Zoology from Christ College, Irinjalakuda.
• Jayachandran’s musical journey began in high school, where he played the mridangam and sang light classical music.

Musical Beginnings

• Debuted in 1965 with the song “Oru Mullappoo Malayumayi” for the film Kunjali Marakkar.
• His first released song was “Manjalayil Mungithorthi” from the film Kalithozhan.
• Won first place in the mridangam competition at the 1958 state school kalotsavam.
• Met K. J. Yesudas at the same festival, who later became a significant figure in his musical journey.

Career Achievements

• Recorded over 16,000 songs in various languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi.
• Worked with renowned composers such as G. Devarajan, M. S. Baburaj, Ilaiyaraaja, A. R. Rahman, and more.
• Best known for his collaborations with Ilaiyaraaja, particularly the song Rasathi unna kanatha nenju from Vaidehi Kathirundal.
• Awarded National Film Award, Kerala’s J.C. Daniel Award, and Kerala State Film Awards five times.
• His devotional performance Shiva Shankara Sharana Sarva Vibho from Sree Narayana Guru earned him the National Award.

Personal Life

• Survived by his wife Lalitha, daughter Lakshmi, and son Dinanathan, also a singer.
• His funeral will be held at his ancestral home in Chendamangalam on Saturday.

Tributes

• Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar praised his voice, which charmed audiences for six decades.
• Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed that Jayachandran’s songs had captured the hearts of generations and transcended time.
• Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan described him as one of those “rare voices” that resonated deeply with listeners for decades.