Veteran Tamil Music Composer Deva Dies At 75, Superstar Rajinikanth Pays Tribute; Check Net Worth, Top Hits

Veteran Tamil music composer Devanesan Chokkalingam, or popularly known as Then Isai Thendral Deva, dies due to cardiac arrest on Saturday, October 17, 2026. The South Stars have paid their condolences and heartfelt respect to Deva's contribution to their music industry. Meanwhile, superstar Rajnikant visited his resident to pay his last respects for the composer.

Veteran Tamil Music Composer Deva Dies At 75:

The Tamil composer passed away on Saturday due to deteriorating health conditions, leaving fans and south stars shattered and sad. As per reports, he was rushed to a private hospital in Chennai in the early hours of October 17th, at 8:30 am. However, reports said he could not survive. Some reported that he had a cardiac arrest in the hospital.

Veteran Tamil Music Composer Deva Career:

Deva was a prominent figure in the music industry of south Indian cinemas, with composing songs for more than 400 films in his nearly four decades of career. He was both Indian composer and singer who predominantly worked in Tamil cinema and have composed songs for Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Malayalam films.

Deva is also noted for his collaborative approach within the industry. Deva frequently worked with mentors, contemporaries, and other composers, and invited several of them to contribute as singers in his compositions. Conversely, he himself rendered vocals in numerous songs for other music directors. He is regarded as one of the most prolific music directors in Tamil cinema to have also sung extensively across his own and others' compositions, as per Wikipedia.

Veteran Tamil Music Composer Deva Dies: Stars React

On X, actor Karthi said, "Deva sir's boundless energy and childlike innocence were as special as his music. He brought a unique joy to everything he did, and his melodies and vibrant Chennai gaana will always remain a part of our lives. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."

Meanwhile, music composer Sam CS also shared a heartfelt message. He said. "Your timeless melodies and unforgettable songs will forever live in our hearts. Thank you for enriching Tamil music with your extraordinary talent."

Not just that, Rajnikant, who is a superstar of overall Indian cinema, had visited the music director's residence to pay his last respects.

Deva has produced banger songs for many of Rajnikanth's films.

Veteran Tamil Music Composer Deva Dies: Top Hits

1. Naan Autokaaran - Baashha (1995)

Featuring Rajinikanth, this iconic gaana number became one of Deva's signature compositions, celebrated for its energetic beats and mass appeal.

2. Vanthenda Paalkaran - Annamalai (1992)

A memorable Rajinikanth song, this energetic track remains a favourite among fans of Tamil superstar songs.

3. Konja Naal Poru Thalaiva - Aasai (1995)

Featuring Ajith Kumar and Suvalakshmi, this popular melody captures the youthful romance and musical charm of 1990s Tamil cinema.

4. Aval Varuvala - Nerukku Ner (1997)

Starring Vijay and Suriya, this romantic hit showcases Deva's ability to create soulful melodies alongside his high-energy numbers.

5. Kavalai Padathey Sagothara - Kadhal Kottai (1996)

An upbeat and memorable song that highlights Deva's knack for catchy tunes and crowd-pleasing rhythms.

Other notable movies are --- April Maathathil - Vaalee (1999), Oru Ponnu Onnu - Kushi (2000), Style Style Thaan - Baashha (1995), Meenamma Athikalayilum - Aasai (1995), and Ra Ra Ramaiya - Baashha (1995).

Tamil Music Producer Deva Net Worth

Overall, he is reported to have an estimated net worth of Rs 10 crore to Rs 20 crore.