Superstar Rajinikanth paid an emotional tribute to veteran Tamil music composer Deva, popularly known as Thenisai Thendral, at his Chennai residence on Saturday, October 17. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay also visited the late composer’s home to pay his last respects, meet the family, and offer his condolences.
Rajinikanth appeared visibly emotional as he stood before Deva’s mortal remains and offered his support to the bereaved family. He consoled the relatives during his visit but did not address the media. Deva composed music for several of Rajinikanth’s films throughout his career, including scoring the iconic theme used for the actor's title cards.
Following Rajinikanth’s visit, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor Vijay arrived at the residence to honor the legendary musician. Numerous other political figures and film industry personalities also traveled to the home to offer their sympathies.
Actor Kamal Haasan took to social media to share his shock over the passing of his dear friend and colleague, recalling their joyful collaborations on films such as Avvai Shanmugi, Pammal K. Sambandam, and Panchatanthiram. Actress Khushbu Sunder also expressed devastation online, remembering Deva as a vibrant and sweet-natured individual who departed far too soon.
Composer Devanesan Chokkalingam, widely recognized as Deva, passed away at a hospital in Chennai at the age of 75, though a specific cause of death was not disclosed. Over a career spanning nearly forty years, he crafted songs and background scores for more than 400 films across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam cinema. He made his full-fledged Tamil film debut with Mattukkara Mannaru in 1986 and went on to cement his industry presence with hits like Manasukketha Maharasa and Vaigasi Poranthachu.