P Jayachandran, Renowned Playback Singer Known as Bhava Gayakan, Passes Away at 80

Celebrated playback singer P Jayachandran, affectionately known as Bhava Gayakan for his soul-stirring renditions, passed away on Thursday evening in Thrissur, Kerala. He was 80 and had been battling a prolonged illness.

A Melodic Legend Departs

Jayachandran, who was receiving treatment at a private medical college, succumbed to his illness at 7:55 pm on Thursday. Hospital authorities revealed he had been rushed there after collapsing at home earlier that day.

Over his illustrious career, Jayachandran recorded more than 16,000 songs in multiple languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. Known for capturing emotions such as love, devotion, and longing through his music, he earned numerous accolades, including the National Film Award, Kerala's prestigious J C Daniel Award, and multiple state awards in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. His powerful rendition of Shiva Shankara Sharana Sarva Vibho from the film Sree Narayana Guru secured him the National Award.

Early Life and Musical Journey

Born on March 3, 1944, in Ernakulam, Kerala, Jayachandran was the third son of Ravi Varma Kochaniyan Thampuran and Subhadra Kunjamma. His passion for music was evident from a young age, starting with his talent for the mridangam and light classical singing during his school years.

His first major recognition came in 1958 when he won first place in the mridangam competition at the state school kalotsavam. It was at this festival that he met another musical prodigy, K J Yesudas, marking the beginning of a lifelong friendship.

Jayachandran’s breakthrough came in 1965 when he debuted with the song Oru Mullappoo Malayumayi for the movie Kunjali Marakkar. However, his first released song was Manjalayil Mungithorthi from Kalithozhan. Over the decades, he worked with legendary composers such as G Devarajan, M S Baburaj, Ilaiyaraaja, A R Rahman, and Vidyasagar, producing countless timeless hits.

A Lasting Legacy

Jayachandran is survived by his wife, Lalitha, daughter Lakshmi, and son Dinanathan, who is also a singer. His mortal remains will be placed at the Sahitya Academy Hall in Thrissur on Friday for the public to pay respects. The funeral will take place on Saturday at his ancestral home in Chendamangalam.

Tributes Pour In

Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar expressed his condolences, saying, “His endearing voice that charmed audiences for six decades will continue to soothe hearts.”

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan noted that Jayachandran’s songs transcended time and space, capturing the hearts of generations. “Every note he sang resonated with people, be it film songs, light music, or devotional pieces. His unique emotional depth set him apart,” he said.

Opposition Leader V D Satheesan described Jayachandran as one of those rare voices that music lovers could listen to endlessly. “For over five decades, his enchanting voice has captivated audiences,” he remarked.

Jayachandran’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the music world. His legacy, however, will endure through the countless melodies that continue to inspire and comfort listeners across generations.