A file photo of MS Viswanathan. (Image courtesy: Ramana)
Southern music composer MS Viswanathan, who has over 750 films to his credit, died at a private hospital here on July 14. He was 87.
MSV, as he was fondly called by the members of Tamil film industry, was undergoing treatment at Fortis Malar hospital for age related ailments and breathing problem.
"He passed away around 4.30 am on Tuesday," a family source told IANS.
Popular for composing music in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam industries, MSV started his career as a composer for 1952 film Tamil
Panam starring Sivaji Ganeshan.
MSV was popular for his collaboration with fellow composer TK Ramamurthy. The duo composed music for 86 Tamil films during their association of over a decade.
Having started composing together in 1952, they split up in 1965. Some of their best films include
Paasamalara, Sumaithaangi, Server Sundaram, Aayirathil Oruvan and
Enga Veetu Pillai.
Post the separation, MSV went on to become more successful. Mr Viswanathan's solo hits include
Bama Vijayam, Galatta Kalyanam, Deivamagan, Moondru Dheivangal, Rickshawkaran, Bharatha Vilas and
Ulagam Sutrum Valiban.
Popularly known as 'king of light music' (Mellisai Mannar), he has also worked in Malayalam films such as
Manthrakodi, Babu Mon, Ullasa Yathra and
Amme Anupamea.
In Telugu, his compositions include
Tenali Ramakrishna, Anthuleni Katha, Idhi Katha Kaadu, Aakali Rajyam and
Maro Charitra.
MSV and legendary filmmaker K Balachander combination had produced several evergreen classics.
His wife Janaki died in 2012. A year later, his best friend and composer TK Ramamurthy too died. He is a recipient of Kalamamani and several other music awards.
MSV is survived by four sons and three daughters. His last rites will be performed on July 15.