Renowned Indian playback singer P. Jayachandran, affectionately known as ‘Bhava Gayakan’ for his soulful renditions, passed away on January 9, 2025, in Thrissur, Kerala, at the age of 80. His demise marks the end of an illustrious musical journey that spanned nearly six decades and left an indelible mark on Indian music.
A Glorious Career in Music:
- Jayachandran’s career began in 1966 with the Malayalam film Kalithozhan, where he recorded the iconic song “Manjalayil Mungithorthi”.
- Over his extensive career, he recorded more than 16,000 songs across five languages—Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi.
- Some of his most beloved tracks include “Rathiriyil Poothirukkum” (Thanga Magan), “Naale Naale Ente Naale” (Aadya Kiranangal), and “Nadha Nee Varum” (Thalapathi).
Tributes from Leaders and Fans:
- Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan mourned Jayachandran’s passing, highlighting his unparalleled contributions to music and his ability to connect emotionally with listeners. In a heartfelt statement, he said:”An era that mesmerized generations with its musical wonder has drawn its curtain. Jayachandran’s renditions brought the beauty of the Malayalam language to the world. His loss is an irreparable void for Malayalam music.”
- Minister for Culture Saji Cherian also paid tribute, recalling Jayachandran’s honor with the 2020 J.C. Daniel Award, the highest accolade in Malayalam cinema. Cherian wrote:”With timeless melodies numbering in the thousands, he won the hearts of Malayalees and secured a place in every listener’s heart. His magical voice and soulful renditions will remain immortal.”
Recognitions and Awards:
- Jayachandran was a recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including:
- National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer (1986) for the song Sivasankara Sarva Saranya Vibho.
- Multiple Kerala and Tamil Nadu State Film Awards.
- The J.C. Daniel Award in 2020 for his lifetime contributions to Malayalam cinema.
Legacy:
Born on March 3, 1944, in Ernakulam, Jayachandran’s collaborations with legendary composers and directors enriched Indian music. His voice, known for its emotional depth and versatility, resonated with generations, making him a household name across South India and beyond.
Jayachandran’s melodies will continue to echo in the hearts of his fans, leaving behind a legacy that is both timeless and immortal. He is survived by his family, who, along with countless fans, mourn the loss of this musical legend.