Exploring the Enigma Called Illaiyaraja – Episode 6
This series of articles began with the intention of examining one outstanding song by Illaiyaraja in each episode. However, after the first episode, we realised that there was a lot of misunderstanding, misinformation and even ignorance of how Illaiyaraja became the pride of India. The Wikipedia page on him contains huge lapses, and ignores some […]
Sigaram Mothers’ Day Special
Unlike Hollywood films that portray a close relationship with one’s mother as something to be mocked at, Tamil films have always led the way in showing how Mothers need to be respected and honoured. Despite the many changes in societal values and social norms, the love and respect commanded by a mother is deeply entrenched […]
Exploring the Enigma Called Illaiyaraja – Episode 5
In Illaiyaraja’s first 30 months in the industry, he completed 41 soundtracks and background scores. This was not by any means a huge number of films, but two aspects made his music stand out from the others. One was the depth of his musical introductions and his interludes: These contained very intricate compositions, filled with […]
Sai Pallavi – The Reluctant Actress Who Won People’s hearts.
Sai Pallavi was born on 09 May 1992 to a Badaga family in Coimbatore. She showed an early interest in dancing and participated in some TV dance shows as a contestant on Vijay TV and ETV. After uncredited roles in Kasthuri Maan and Dhaam Dhoom and then turning down numerous offers to act, she made […]
Atharva Murali Turns 36 Today
Atharva Murali is the son of 80s actor, the Late Murali. Atharva made his acting debut in the film 2010 Bana Kaathaadi in which Murali made a special guest appearance. Atharva’s co-star was fellow newcomer, Samantha Ruth Prabhu. The success of this film saw Murali began a dual-language venture with Atharva in the lead role. […]
Exploring the Enigma Called Illaiyaraja – Episode 4
In the previous episode, we looked at some of Illaiyaraja’s popular and notable soundtracks of 1978 – the year that saw 24 of his films being released. Even at that stage a monthly average of 2 complete soundtracks with background scores was a formidable feat, but this was only the beginning of the wonder called […]
Trisha Remains the Reigning Queen of Tamil Cinema
Trisha is Tamil cinema’s longest reigning Tamil lead actress. This year, she completes 26 years in the film industry and 23 years as a lead actress. This is a remarkable feat as the lifespan of an actress in the lead role seldom crosses a decade. Although blessed with good looks, charm and poise, Trisha’s climb […]
Exploring the Enigma Called Illaiyaraja – Episode 3
Illaiyaraja’s first soundtrack was a runaway hit, but there were many who still doubted his talent and longevity in the industry. Illaiyaraja’s second film, Paaloota Vallartha Killi was the first of his soundtracks to feature his old and lifelong friend, S.P. Balasubramaniyam. After scoring music for three successive films for the directorial duo, Devaraj-Mohan, the […]
Exploring the Enigma Called Illaiyaraja – Episode 2
Illaiyaraja was born as Gnanathesigan in the small town of Pannaipuram on 03 June 1943. When his father enrolled him at school, he registered him as Rajaiyya, but the village folk all called him Raasaiyya. His music Guru, Dhanraj-Master renamed him Raja. When Panju Arunachallam introduced him to films, there was already a Raja in […]
Versatile and Lovable Ramesh Thilak Turns 40 Today.
RJ-turned-actor Ramesh Thilak turns 40 today. He began his career as a Radio jockey on Suryan FM and rapidly rose to popularity because of his jovial nature that ensured that his shows were lively and humorous. His antics on radio led to him being referred to as Thillu Mullu Ramesh. He made his acting debut […]