This Article is From Jul 14, 2015

MS Viswanathan Was Behind Success of MGR, Sivaji: Rajinikanth

MS Viswanathan Was Behind Success of MGR, Sivaji: Rajinikanth

This image was posted on twitter by Linga: The Movie

Chennai: Superstar Rajinikanth said on July 14 that late legendary composer MS Viswanathan has played a prominent role in the success of Tamil cinema biggies like MG Ramachandran (MGR) and Sivaji Ganeshan.

"You will rarely find someone like MSV in any industry. He lived life like a selfless saint, free from jealousy and lies. He was behind the success of legends like MGR and Sivaji," Rajinikanth told reporters.

Rajinikanth was among many celebrities who paid their last respects to Viswanathan, popularly known as MSV, who passed away at a private hospital on Tuesday. (Also Read: MS Viswanathan Should Have Got Padma Award, Says Jayalalithaa)

"If not for MSV, the careers of filmmaker Balachander, lyricists Vaali and Kannadasan wouldn't have tasted huge success. May his soul rest in peace," he said.

Mr Viswanathan, 87, died due to age-related issues and breathing problem.

In his illustrious career spanning over four decades, he composed music for over 750 southern films, mostly Tamil.

As a mark of respect, the Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI) has announced in an official statement that all film-related activities in Tamil film industry Wednesday stand cancelled. (Also Read: Tamil Composer MS Viswanathan Dies at 87)

His last rites will be performed on July 14.

MSV was popular for his collaboration with fellow composer TK Ramamurrthy. The duo composed music for 86 Tamil films during their association of over a decade.

Having started composing together in 1952, they split in 1965. Some of their best films include Paasamalar, 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), Mr Vishwanathan also worked in Malayalam films such as Manthrakodi, Babu Mon, Ullasa Yathra and Amme Anupame.

In Telugu, his compositions include Tenali Ramakrishna, Anthuleni Katha, Idhi Katha Kaadu, Aakali Rajyam and Maro Charitra.

MSV and legendary filmmaker K Balachander combination produced several evergreen classics.

His wife Janaki passed away in 2012. A year later, his best friend and composer TK Ramamurthy breathed his last. He was a recipient of Kalamamani and several other music awards.

MSV is survived by four sons and three daughters.
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