Music Composer Ilaiyaraaja was felicitated by the Tamil Nadu State Government on completing 50 years in the film industry. The event, which was organised by the Tamil Nadu Government, was also held to felicitate the composer on his debut symphony, titled 'Valiant', at the Eventim Apollo Theatre, London. He was joined by the London Philharmonic Orchestra for the presentation.
Actor Kamal Haasan, who was present in the event said, "I won't have enough time to detail the memories of the 50 years, I have spent with Ilaiyaraaja anna." He went on to say, "The same man (former CM M Karunanidhi) who gave TN CM Stalin his name, was the one who gave the Isaignani (Scholar of Music) title to Ilaiyaraaja and gave me my name too ."
Kamal also added, "Ilaiyaraaja knows how much of an honour it is for me to speak at this event. This Isaignani is like my own anna (elder brother)." Kamal Haasan ended his speech by serenading the composer with a song.
Along with Kamal, TN CM Stalin, TN's Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, actor Rajinikanth, Sathyaraj, and Nassar were present at the event. Ilaiyaraaja has composed for movies starring Kamal like Nayakan, Vikram, Salangai Oli, Guna, and Kamal Haasan directorials Hey Ram and Virumaandi.
