It was a black day for the Indian music industry following the demise of veteran singer Vani Jairam on Saturday. As condolences pour in, composer Ilaiyaraaja paid his respects.

Taking to Twitter, he posted a video saying, “I am disheartened to hear the demise of Vani Jairam. She has sung over 10,000 Indian songs and made a special place for herself. She has sung very beautiful songs under my composition, which have been loved by fans. Her voice and talent, has only further enhanced the songs. I am deeply saddened by her loss and my respects are with her family members. Let her soul rest in peace.”

Vani Jairam was 78. She passed away at her residence in Chennai on Saturday. According to reports, she slipped down in her bedroom, which caused an injury on her forehead. The singer was recently conferred with the Padma Bhushan award.

It may be noted that Vani Jairam recently completed 50 years as a professional singer. She sang over 10,000 songs in 18 different Indian languages in her career. One of the most celebrated singers in India, Vani Jairam, won the National Award thrice for Apoorva Raagangal, Sankarabharanam, and Swathi Kiranam. She also received State awards from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Odisha.