T.K. Pugazhendhi passed away

[RR]

http://www.lakshmansruthi.com/tkpugazhenthi.htm

Manisekaran writes on TKP:

Pugazhendhi was a lifelong assistant to KV Mahadevan. At a time when KVM had to go outstation, he recommended Pugazhendhi to compose for the film "Pennarasi" Such was the confidence KVM had on Pugazhendhi. A Malayalee by birth, but came and settled in Tamilnaadu and had much feelings for the Tamil language. He demanded quality lyrics, and was most attracted to Kannadasan's works. Again, he lifted Kannadasan's original poems into the movie Thaaliya Salangaiya. Had compsed independently- Gurudachanai, Jeyaveeran, Ponni Thirunal, and Selviyin Selvan are among the movies he composed music. Most of his compositions came under KVM's name. He never wanted to steal the show or the name. Had much respect for KVM and preferred to be under KVM's limelight, subduing his own name, fame and even the ego. A truly humble person. I met him in kVM's house in 1984 December. The Tamil Film song fans have now been robbed of one of the strongest stalwarts who had contributed toward the enrichment of quality music that would be remembered, valued and cherished for generations to come. May his soul rest in peace.

My deepest condolences.