Renowned singer Uma Ramanan passed away on May 1 in Chennai at the age of 69, according to multiple reports. The cause of her death remains undisclosed. She is survived by her husband, singer AV Ramanan, and her son, Vignesh Ramanan. Details regarding her funeral arrangements are yet to be announced. Uma Ramanan, a trained classical singer, had a prolific career spanning over 35 years, during which she performed in more than 6,000 concerts.
Who Was Uma Ramanan?
Uma Ramanan gained widespread recognition through her collaboration with music maestro Ilaiyaraaja. Their song Poongathave Thalthiravai from the film Nizhalgal became a massive hit and established her as a prominent playback singer in the Tamil film industry. She went on to sing over 100 songs with Ilaiyaraaja and also worked with other notable composers like Vidyasagar, Mani Sharma, and Deva.
Some of Uma Ramanan's notable songs for Ilaiyaraaja include Bhoopalam Isaikkum from Thooral Ninnu Pochchu, Aanandha Raagam from Panner Pushpangal, Kanmani Nee Vara from Thendrale Ennai Thodu, Ponn Maanae from Oru Kaidhiyin Diary, Aagaya Vennilave from Arangetra Velai, and Sri Ranga Ranganathanin from Mahanadi, among others.
Uma Ramanan made her debut as a playback singer in 1977 with the film Sri Krishna Leela, where she sang alongside her husband, AV Ramanan. Her last recorded song was Kannum Kannumthan Kalandaachu for the film Thirupaachi, composed by Mani Sharma, which she performed with Harish Raghavendra and Premji Amaren.
The news of Uma Ramanan's passing has deeply saddened her fans, who expressed their grief and shared tributes on social media platforms.
RIP Uma Ramanan 🙏Your soulful rendition of this 1981 song touched many hearts and will forever be cherished. pic.twitter.com/gTQSmrsXES
— Sriram (@SriramMadras) May 1, 2024
R.I.P Uma Ramanan Amma 🙏🏻
— From Akila (@FromAkila) May 2, 2024
Your soulful voice will remain in our memory forever.
I wish music lovers of current generation should listen to her top 3 songs:
1. Ananda Ragam - PANEER PUSHPANGAL
2. Poongathave - NIZHALGAL
3. Sevanthi Pookalil - MELLA PESUNGAL pic.twitter.com/qr8DB3d8Ua
Remembering Uma Ramanan whose voice flowed like another well tuned instrument in the Ilayaraja orchestra - always pitch perfect and soothing 🙏🏼https://t.co/msQNaoCaAk
— कृஷ்ண G शेषाத்ri (@hormndoc) May 2, 2024
One of my favorite Uma Ramanan songs...and what a beautiful voice...
— Krrish (@itsme_krrishm) May 2, 2024
Rest eternally in serenity, #UmaRamanan #RIPUmaRamanan
pic.twitter.com/5GTmbXGzkx