TK Ramamurthy dies at 91

Just when people where recovering from the death of legendary singer PB Srinivas, who died on Sunday (April 14), yet another popular Tamil musician passed away. TK Ramamurthy, who was known for his years of association with composer MS Viswanathan, breathed his last on Wednesday. He was 91.

"He had been struggling with illness due to old age for some time now. He passed away early this morning," a family member told IANS. Popularly referred to as duo Viswanathan-Ramamurthy, they composed music for hundreds of Tamil films during their association of over a decade and a half.

Some of their best Tamil films include Panam, Kaadhalikka Neramillai and Aayirathil Oruvan. The duo parted amicably in 1965 and went on to work individually. Since his split with Viswanathan, Ramaurthy composed music for over 20 Tamil films, including Saadhu Mirandaal and Thangachchurangam.

The duo buried the hatchet and reunited for one more Tamil film Engirundho Vandhaan in 1995. With a prowess for the violin, Ramamurthy was raised in a family of violinists such as grandfather Govindasamy and father Krishnasamy. He mostly played violin tunes to the composition of Viswanathan. They were often referred to as South's version of Bollywood composers Shanker-Jaikishen.

Ramamurthy's body has been kept at his residence in Royapettah, for people to pay their respects. The body will be cremated on Thursday.