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Deva dies at 75: Khushbu Sundar, Chinmayi and Vijay Sethupathi pay tribute to legendary composer

hellohimachalse@gmail.com 17 Oct 2026 17 Oct 2026

New Delhi: Tamil cinema has lost one of its most recognisable musical voices. Veteran composer Deva, whose signature music became synonymous with Rajinikanth’s on-screen introductions, died in Chennai on Saturday, October 17, aged 75. His death prompted an outpouring of grief from celebrities, including Khushbu Sundar, Chinmayi and Vijay Sethupathi. Popularly known as ‘Thenisai Thendral’, Deva built a lasting legacy through his work across several South Indian film industries.

Deva dies at 75 after being admitted to Chennai hospital

Deva was taken to Surya Hospital in Kodambakkam, Chennai, on Saturday morning. Reports by DT Next and The New Indian Express said he had been admitted at around 8.30 am following a reported heart attack. Further details about the circumstances surrounding his death were awaited.

Khushbu Sundar recalls meeting Deva days before his death

Actor and politician Khushbu Sundar expressed disbelief at the news, revealing that she had met the composer just 10 days earlier. Sharing his photograph on X, she paid an emotional tribute to the man she remembered for his warmth and cheerful nature.

“Absolutely devastated. Unbelievable. A man who was healthy and laughing, blessing and was part of us just 10 days ago is gone. Its heartbreaking. Thenisai Thendral as he was known, was indeed a man as sweet as honey and light hearted as the wind. His contribution to the world of music and cinema is beyond. Gone too soon. Why?? You will be missed Deva Sir. Rest in peace. #Deva #thenisaithendral #OmShanti.”

Actor Sibi Sathyaraj also mourned the composer, highlighting his versatility and the role his music played in the success of several films during the 1990s and 2000s.

“Extremely saddened to hear the passing away of #Deva sir.A complete allrounder when it came to music be it songs or background score and several movies in the 90s and 2000s became super hits and blockbusters mainly for his music.A wonderful human being who was truly humble and was a delight for Directors and Producers and of course Lead actors loved him for the kind of Mass elevations he had given them! A huge loss to the Film industry. My sincere condolences to his family, friends, relatives and fans. RIP dear sir. #Thenisaithendral.”

Vijay Sethupathi also remembered the veteran musician and his contribution to Tamil cinema.

“The passing of the composer Deva sir, who left an indelible mark on the music world of Tamil cinema, brings immense sorrow. His music and songs will forever live in our memories. Deepest condolences,” he wrote.

Singer Chinmayi Sripaada shared her shock over the news, writing, “Just dont know how to process the passing of Deva Sir. Huge loss.”

Fans also paid tribute to the composer, with many recalling his music for Rajinikanth, including the iconic introductory score featured in Jailer 2. One fan wrote, “Just before a day was celebrating his composing in theatre #Jailer2..RIP #Deva sir. Ur songs & BGM will always travel lifelong.”

Deva’s musical legacy across South Indian cinema

Born Devanesan Chokkalingam on November 20, 1950, Deva died just weeks before his 76th birthday. Across a career spanning several decades, he composed music for more than 400 films in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.

His work covered a wide range of film genres, helping him establish a distinctive identity in South Indian cinema. His compositions for leading stars and successful films made him a familiar name among audiences, while his association with Rajinikanth’s introductory music cemented his place in Tamil cinema’s popular culture. Deva’s influence on film music will continue to be remembered through the songs and scores he leaves behind.

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