Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met renowned musician and composer Ilaiyaraaja and said he made history by presenting his first-ever Western classical symphony, Valiant, in London a few days ago. A nominated member of the Rajya Sabha, Ilaiyaraaja was present during Tuesday’s proceedings as the House took up a discussion on the workings of the Union health ministry. Modi said in a post on X, “Delighted to meet Rajya Sabha MP Thiru Ilaiyaraaja ji, a musical titan whose genius has a monumental impact on our music and culture. He is a trailblazer in every sense and he made history yet again by presenting his first-ever Western classical symphony, Valiant, in London a few days ago.”
Modi noted that his performance was accompanied by the world-renowned Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. This momentous feat marks yet another chapter in his unparalleled musical journey — one that continues to redefine excellence on a global scale, he added. Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar also lauded the musician, describing him as a legendary composer whose music shaped Indian cinema for more than five decades.