KG Jayan, renowned Carnatic musician and singer, passes away

KG Jayan, a renowned Carnatic musician and singer, passed away at 89 at his home in Tripunithura, Ernakulam district, Kerala. He had been battling various health issues and was receiving treatment.

Jayan, father of Malayalam actor Manoj K Jayan, was a luminary in the Malayalam music industry, known for his chart-topping compositions, especially devotional tracks. Alongside his twin brother KG Vijayan, they formed the ‘Jaya-Vijaya’ duo, creating enduring music that continues to resonate with Malayalees.

Born on November 21, 1934, to Gopalan Thantri and Narayaniamma in Kottayam, KG Jayan's journey into Carnatic music began at nine under the tutelage of stalwarts like the Alathur Brothers and Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar. His devotional tracks, especially those dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, received acclaim, with a musical legacy boasting over 1,000 compositions.

Some of his evergreen works include ‘Ayyanu Thunayay’, ‘Vishnumaayayil Piranna’, ‘Mamala Vaazhum’, ‘Sreekovil Nada Thurannu’, ‘Saranamayyappaa Swami Saranamayyappaa’, ‘Ayyappan Thinthakathom’, and ‘Malamukalil Vaazhum Devaa.’

Jaya-Vijaya's collaborations with legends like KJ Yesudas and P Leela solidified their position in the hearts of music enthusiasts. Their work includes composing songs for a few Malayalam films. One notable milestone was the song ‘Ishta Daivame Swami,’ sung by Leela, which became the first Malayalam devotional song performed by a woman.

Jayan's musical contributions garnered him prestigious accolades such as the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi Award and the Harivarasanam Award, jointly instituted by the Government of Kerala and the Travancore Devaswom Board. In 2019, he was honored with the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in India.

His final rites are scheduled for April 17. Jayan is survived by his sons Manoj and Biju K Jayan. His wife Sarojini passed away a few years ago.

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