Acclaimed Malayalam music composer MK Arjunan, who is known for composing the tunes to over 700 Malayalam movie tracks in around 200 films, passed away at his home in Kochi this morning. He was 85.

Known for his mastery over melodies, Arjunan master was born on August 25, 1936. His interest in music grew while composing for amateur plays before turning into one of the most sought after names in the music and theatre scene. He has written around 800 scores for 300 plays.

When cinema beckoned, Arjunan master established himself at a time when maestros such as G Devarajan, MS Baburaj, and K Raghavan were the reigning musical icons. He made his debut as a film music composer in Karuthapournami (1968).

He had enjoyed a long and fruitful collaboration with lyricist Sreekumar Thampi. Together they worked in close to 50 films. He is also known for giving AR Rahman his first break by making him play the keyboard in Adimachangala (1981).

AR Rahman took to social media to express his condolences.

Arjunan received his first Kerala State Award for Jayaraj's Bhayanakam (2018). His last film was Vellaaram Kunnille Vellimeenukal (2019).