Chennai: “24 June should be declared as Music Day as Kaviyarasu Kannadasan and one of the greatest composers M S Viswanathan were born on this day. Together they gave several songs which are immortal”, say music-lovers.
Kannadasan conveyed sublime truths, greater philosophies and altruistic thoughts through his lyrics. Mellisai Mannar as he is affectionately called, MSV gave them life with his simple yet catchy tunes. Their works have groomed many for generations. It is not just a coincidence that they share their birth dates, but destiny, feel their fans.
Known for their friendship off the recording studios too, Kannadasan and MSV have been an inspiration for many. The duo were skilled goldsmiths who collaborated to give us wonderful ornaments, says music critic Subash.
He says, “Kannadasan not just wrote songs for particular situations in the movies. His lyrics had a greater wisdom. They conveyed a larger meaning to us. And, MSV never tried to override the lyrics. His music gave a lift to the writings. They enjoyed each other’s company. Coming up with classics was a child play for them”.
Echoing the same, Murali, a die-hard Kaviyarasu fan, says, “there was literature, psychological and philosophical elements in his works. He was a gifted lyricist. Even complex philosophies of life were brought out in simple words by him. The essence of ‘Bhagavad Gita’ was explained in such a easy way in ‘Karnan’ songs through his lyrics helped take it to laymen. He celebrated everything he saw around him through his works. He was a literary giant, a lyricist par excellence, motivational speaker and a devout spiritualist”.
On MSV, he says, “At a time when music directors were opting for classical ragas for tunes in cinema, he made his tunes sound simple, non-traditional with no complexity. He had profound knowledge of classical and world music. But always wanted to stick to basics. Complex tunes sounded smooth on our ears courtesy MSV. From an office boy to harmonium player to a music composer, his rise was phenomenal. He left his indelible mark with soothing melodies, mass numbers, Tamil pop, pathos, a vast range of classical songs in 1700-odd films he worked in his career spanning close to five decades”.
MSV with TK Ramamurthy created the grammar for film music which is serving the industry successfully even today, he adds.
Remember lyricist Panchu Arunchalam, who worked with Kannadasan, had once said watching MSV and Kannadasan collaborate were special moments. Friends forever, they understood each other’s prowess and came up with quality works in quick time.
Music-lovers say, “For any listener, it would be difficult to list out the greatest hits of the composer who had such an extensive discography”.
It is great that both the legends were born on the same day. It was divinely-ordained. Together they will stay in our hearts forever, they add.
Going further, Mani, who runs a music troupe says, “MSV, Kannadasan with TMS and P Susheela have given us master piece melodies. The quartet will have a long lasting impact in the history of Tamil music”.
Bhoomi ullavarai nilaithirukkum MSV, Kannadasan pughazh, he says. It means both the legends will be admired and adored forever. Very true indeed.
Duo’s delight…
It is tough task indeed to put together their greatest work together, which is very vast. Here is our list of some of their songs in various genres…
Varavu Ettana Selavu, Viswanathan Velai Vendum, Andha Naal Gnyabagam, Ennai Yaarendru Enni, Maalai Pozhudin Mayakkathilae, Mayakama Kalakama, Rahavin Paarvai, Kodi Asaindhadhum, Andru Oomai Pennalo, Madurai Nagaril, Madi Meedhu Thalai Vaithu, Naalam Naalam….and the list goes on and on.