Columns

Rewind with Raja: One last ride

Ahead of the upcoming Ilaiyaraaja concert, Isai Celebrates Isai, the Isaignani, in this column, reflects on an old photo of his from the TNIE archive

Navein Darshan

'This picture was at the launch of a film; I'm unable to remember which one though. Since this event happened much before we collaborated, Kavignar Kannadasan didn't know me personally then. He only knew that I was working in Panchu (Arunachalam) sir's films. He penned his last three film songs at my studio. The songs were Koondhalile Megam Vandhu from Bala Nagamma, Raja Rani Jacky from Netrikkan and finally Kanne Kalaimaane from Moondram Pirai. He came out of the studio after writing Kanne Kalaimaane and said, "Raja nejemave kuduthu vechavan, I've decided not to write songs for films anymore and these three will be my last contribution to film lyrics. Since Raja has got the opportunity to compose these songs, he is indeed lucky." He didn't say this to me — I got to know about it through a common friend later. Kavignar and MS Viswanathan anna are legends who redefined Tamil film music. Nobody can forget their contribution to the industry. 

(As told to Navein Darshan)

Anbe Diana Movie Review: Familiar romance with fairytale-like optimism

Jana Nayagan producer says film will be 'very different' with Vijay becoming CM, cites TVK reference in it

Varavu Movie Review: A revenge saga frozen in the 90s

It's a wrap for Suriya 47; film to hit theatres soon

The Odyssey Movie Review: A meditative and stunning anti-war epic