Thu Jan 09 18:04:25 UTC 2025: ## Legendary Playback Singer P. Jayachandran Passes Away at 80

**Thrissur, Kerala –** Veteran playback singer P. Jayachandran, a beloved voice in Malayalam cinema and beyond, passed away on Thursday at the age of 80. The celebrated singer, known for his soulful renditions and six-decade-long career, breathed his last at 7:54 PM at Amala Hospital in Thrissur after being rushed there following a collapse at his home. He had been battling cancer for an extended period.

Jayachandran’s contributions to Indian cinema are immense, spanning over 16,000 songs in Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. His career highlights include a National Film Award for Best Playback Singer, five Kerala State Film Awards, the JC Daniel Award, and the Kalaimamani Award from Tamil Nadu, among numerous other accolades. His timeless songs, capturing a wide spectrum of emotions, remain etched in the memories of countless listeners. He is survived by his wife Lalitha, daughter Lakshmi, and son Dinanathan, also a prominent figure in the music industry.

Born on March 3, 1944, in Ernakulam, Jayachandran’s musical journey began with traditional percussion instruments before his powerful voice led him to the world of playback singing. His breakthrough came in 1965 with the song “Manjalayil Mungi Thorthi,” and despite a career hiatus in the late 1980s and early 1990s, he made a stunning comeback in 1999, captivating audiences for two more decades.

His collaborations with legendary composers like Ilayaraja and A.R. Rahman solidified his legacy in Tamil cinema. Among his most memorable songs are “Manjalayil Mungi Thorthi,” “Neelagiriyude Sakhikale,” and “Prayam Nammil Moham Nalki,” to name a few. His contributions extended to non-film music as well.

The public will have the opportunity to pay their respects on Friday, with the body being kept for viewing at his residence and the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi. The last rites will be held on Saturday at 3 PM at his residence in Chennamangalam. The passing of P. Jayachandran marks the end of an era, leaving behind a treasure trove of music that will continue to resonate for generations to come.

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