How Malaysia Vasudevan Became A Famous Singer In The 80s

During the era when TM Soundararajan, SP Balasubramaniam and Yesudas were dominating the music industry in the 1980s and 90s, Malaysia Vasudevan emerged as a notable figure. Hailing from a background of performing in Tamil troupes in Malaysia, he made his debut as a stage singer in Chennai with Ilaiyaraaja’s group. After this, he was widely recognised as Malaysia Vasudevan and has contributed hit songs for Rajinikanth in numerous films.

Several songs, including Summer Wind, Allith Than Bhumi, Adiadu Poongodiye, and Thanga Chaini, gained popularity. Malaysia Vasudevan particularly captivated audiences with his renditions of Ilayaraja’s music, notably in Manipur Maamiyar, with songs like Ananda Parkuthu. Known for his signature opening song Emmanasu Thangam in Rajinikanth’s films like Murattu Kaalai, Malaysia Vasudevan expanded his repertoire by lending his voice to numerous other songs for the superstar.

Showing his versatility, Malaysia Vasudevan ventured into acting, portraying a villainous role in Oru Kaidhiyin Diary. This marked the beginning of his acting career, and he subsequently appeared in numerous films. Additionally, Malaysia Vasudevan showcased his musical talent by composing music for several Tamil films during the 1980s, including Samanthi Poo, Paku Vethalai, and Ayaal Kayal.

An intriguing anecdote has surfaced regarding Malaysia Vasudevan’s beginnings as a singer. At the age of 16, SP Balasubramaniam sang a song called Atkutty Tedaiittu, but he fell ill suddenly. In his place, Ilaiyaraaja

called upon Malaysia Vasudevan to sing, and the song became a resounding hit, catapulting him to fame as a popular singer.

Vasudevan’s final song, Happy, featured in the film Bale Pandiya, with music composed by Devan Ekambaram. Additionally, the last song he penned, Devathaiye, was for the film Balam, with music composed by his son, Yugendran Vasudevan Nair.

Malaysia Vasudevan, who battled chronic diabetes and hypertension, suffered a stroke in 2003, affecting his mobility. On February 10, 2011, he was hospitalised due to a high fever, which led to the development of gangrene in his big toe. Tragically, he passed away on February 20, 2011, in Chennai.

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