Ilayaraja Golden Jubilee: Highlights and speeches from the grand celebration

In a heartfelt and grand celebration, the Tamil Nadu Government honored maestro Ilayaraja for completing 50 glorious years in the Indian film industry. The event, attended by political leaders and cinematic legends, also recognized a landmark achievement in the composer’s career, his debut symphony titled Valiant, performed alongside the prestigious London Philharmonic Orchestra at the Eventim Apollo Theatre in London.

A Night of Tributes, Memories, and Music

The evening unfolded not just as a felicitation but as a moving homage to a man whose music has underscored the emotional fabric of Tamil cinema for over five decades. Ulaga Nayagan/MP Kamal Haasan, a long-time collaborator and admirer of Ilayaraja, delivered a poignant tribute. “Fifty years’ worth of memories with Ilayaraja anna cannot be summed up in a speech,” Kamal said with deep emotion. He recalled how former Chief Minister Karunanidhi had bestowed upon Ilayaraja the title Isaignani (Scholar of Music), a gesture symbolic of the composer’s towering stature in Tamil cultural history. “This Isaignani is like my own elder brother,” Kamal concluded before serenading the maestro with a song, adding a personal musical touch to the ceremony.

Rajinikanth’s Recollections: Respect with a Dash of Humour

Superstar Rajinikanth brought his signature charm and sincerity to the stage, reminiscing about a time when Ilayaraja placed his faith in him during the making of Rajathi Raja. The composer had told Rajinikanth, “If this film doesn’t run past its silver jubilee, I will stop composing and never touch the harmonium again.” The film went on to be a success, and Rajinikanth, still in awe of that unwavering confidence, admitted, “I have belief, but not like Ilayaraja’s belief.”

Playfully, Rajinikanth added, “Ilayaraja doesn’t compose the same way for everyone, he gives a little extra for Kamal’s films,” drawing laughter from the audience. He concluded with heartfelt praise: “Ilayaraja is an extraordinary man. Hats off to the great maestro. Long live.”

Udhayanidhi Stalin: “He is the Music of Our Lives”

Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin reflected on Ilayaraja’s universal presence in Tamil lives, saying, “Though we are born to different mothers, the lullabies that cradled us were all his. Without his music, there is no youth, no love, no memory.” He hailed Valiant as a testament to Ilayaraja’s unyielding creativity at 82, describing it as “an inspiration to be disciplined, energetic, and constantly evolving.”

CM Stalin’s Request to the Maestro

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin began his address by quoting lyrics from Agni Natchathiram’s iconic track “Raaja Raajaathi,” declaring Ilayaraja the eternal king of music. Echoing the sentiments of countless fans, he said, “There’s hardly anyone who hasn’t sung or related to an Ilayaraja song – be it in joy or sorrow.”

In a rare role reversal, Stalin placed a public request on behalf of the people: “I ask you, not as a CM but as a fan, please compose for classical Tamil texts.” He also announced a state award in Ilayaraja’s name to honor musicians annually and reaffirmed his demand for Ilayaraja to be conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.

Ilayaraja: The Man Behind the Music

When the man of the hour finally spoke, it was with characteristic humility and raw honesty. Speaking about Valiant, Ilayaraja revealed the emotional and creative challenges behind the symphony. “I had to forget I’m from Tamil Nadu. I couldn’t reflect any local influence. I had to ensure my music wasn’t mistaken as copied from anyone else. But when I saw tears in your eyes while listening, I knew it had reached your hearts.”

He reserved his deepest gratitude for his children, Karthik Raja and Yuvan Shankar Raja, acknowledging the sacrifices they endured. “If I had spent time with them, I could not have composed this symphony – or many of the songs you cherish. So I thank them for tolerating me.”

In a lighter moment, Ilayaraja shared a hilarious anecdote involving Rajinikanth and director Mahendran, recalling a night of laughter and confessions that lasted until 3AM. Rajinikanth jumped in to verify the tale, teasing, “After half a bottle of beer, Ilayaraja turned into a romantic, no surprise his songs are soaked in love.”

A Legacy That Transcends Generations

With over 7000 songs and more than 1000 film scores, his body of work is both prolific and deeply personal to millions. As the evening drew to a close, Ilayaraja announced plans to present Valiant once again with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, promising that his journey of pushing musical boundaries is far from over.

A Tribute Beyond Time

In celebrating 50 years of Ilayaraja’s musical journey, the state of Tamil Nadu honored not just a composer, but an emotion, a cultural force, and an inspiration. His melodies have become a constant companion through life’s ups and downs soothing, stirring, and transcending.

From all of us at Only Kollywood, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the immortal maestro. May his music continue to inspire, heal, and echo through generations to come.