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P. Jayachandran, fondly known as «Bhava Gayakan» (Singer of Emotions), was a legendary Indian playback singer whose rich voice graced South Indian music for over six decades. Born on March 3, 1944, in Irinjalakuda, Kerala, he earned a reputation for his emotionally resonant singing that brought lyrics to life. Jayachandran passed away on January 9, 2025, at the age of 80, leaving behind an unmatched legacy in Indian music. His life, both personal and professional, was a harmonious symphony, deeply rooted in the love and support of his family.
who is P. Jayachandran
P. Jayachandran was born into a musically inclined family in Irinjalakuda, Thrissur district, Kerala. His father, Ravivarma Kochaniyan Thampuran, was a member of the Cochin royal family and an ardent lover of music, though he never pursued it professionally. Jayachandran’s mother, Paliyath Subhadrakkunjamma, played a pivotal role in fostering his early musical interests.
He completed his schooling at National High School in Irinjalakuda, where his natural talent for music began to shine. He was an accomplished mridangam player and excelled in light music, earning accolades at state school youth festivals. After school, he pursued a degree in Zoology at Christ College, Irinjalakuda, but music remained his true calling.
Jayachandran’s talent caught the attention of music directors, and his entry into playback singing was facilitated by his collaboration with celebrated composers like G. Devarajan and M. S. Baburaj. His debut song, «Oru Mullappoo Muthinu,» from the film Kunchacko in 1965, was an instant hit, marking the beginning of an extraordinary career.
A Legendary Musical Career
P. Jayachandran’s voice became synonymous with emotion and versatility. Over his career, he recorded more than 16,000 songs in Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi. Known for his collaborations with legendary composers like Ilaiyaraaja, A. R. Rahman, and M. K. Arjunan, Jayachandran delivered timeless classics that transcended generations.
Some of his most iconic songs include:
- «Ragam Sreeragam» (Thampi Kannamthanam, Malayalam)
- «Akkare Ninnoru Maran» (Aparahnam, Malayalam)
- «Mayanginen Solla Thayanginen» (Naanum Oru Thozhilaali, Tamil)
- «Pramadavanam» (His Highness Abdulla, Malayalam)
Jayachandran’s ability to convey deep emotions through his voice earned him numerous accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer in 1986 for the Malayalam film Sindoora Rekha. He won five Kerala State Film Awards and multiple Tamil Nadu State Film Awards during his career. In 2020, he was honored with the J. C. Daniel Award, the highest award in Malayalam cinema, in recognition of his lifetime contributions.
P. Jayachandran Family
Jayachandran’s family played a significant role in shaping his life and career. Their unwavering support was a cornerstone of his success. Here’s a detailed look at his family:
| Family Member | Details |
|---|---|
| Father | Ravivarma Kochaniyan Thampuran – Music enthusiast and member of the Cochin royal family. |
| Mother | Paliyath Subhadrakkunjamma – Encouraged Jayachandran’s early interest in music. |
| Siblings | Two brothers: Sudhakaran (mentor in music) and Krishna Kumar; Two sisters: Sarasija and Jayanthi. |
| Spouse | Lalitha – Married in May 1973; a constant source of love and stability. |
| Children | Daughter: Lakshmi; Son: Dinanath – A playback singer who followed in his father’s footsteps. |
Jayachandran’s elder brother, Sudhakaran, was particularly instrumental in nurturing his musical talent. Sudhakaran introduced him to songs and encouraged his participation in competitions during his school years. Jayachandran credited his family for providing a strong foundation that allowed him to pursue his dreams.
His wife, Lalitha, stood by him as a pillar of strength throughout their decades-long marriage. Their son, Dinanath, has also carved a niche for himself as a playback singer, carrying forward the family’s musical legacy.
Legacy and Impact
P. Jayachandran’s legacy extends far beyond his countless recordings. His music has been a source of solace, inspiration, and joy for millions of fans. Known for his humility and dedication, Jayachandran was beloved not only for his talent but also for his gentle demeanor and ability to connect with people on a personal level.
One of his notable achievements was his collaboration with A. R. Rahman for the song «Iniya Gaanam,» which showcased his ability to adapt to contemporary styles while retaining his classical roots. His influence on South Indian music remains unparalleled, with younger artists citing him as a mentor and inspiration.
Final Years and Passing
In his later years, Jayachandran continued to live in Poonkunnam, Thrissur, with his wife, Lalitha. Despite age and health challenges, he remained connected to the music world, occasionally performing at concerts and mentoring aspiring singers. His deep love for music kept him active and engaged even as he neared the end of his life.
On January 9, 2025, P. Jayachandran passed away due to age-related ailments, leaving behind a void in the world of music. Tributes poured in from fans, colleagues, and public figures, highlighting his unparalleled contributions to Indian music and the indelible mark he left on the industry.
Conclusion
P. Jayachandran’s life was a testament to the power of talent, passion, and familial support. His melodious voice and ability to evoke deep emotions made him a legend in the South Indian music industry. His family, especially his wife, Lalitha, and children, were integral to his journey, providing the encouragement and stability that allowed him to thrive.
As the world mourns the loss of this musical icon, his songs continue to resonate in the hearts of millions. P. Jayachandran’s legacy will live on through his timeless melodies and the indomitable spirit of artistry he exemplified throughout his life.
