The revered stalwart of Carnatic music, K.G. Jayan, departed from this world at his residence in Thripunitura, in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, on the quiet evening of April 16th, Tuesday. At the age of 90, the maestro’s passing has left a profound silence in the corridors of Indian classical music where once his melodies reigned supreme.
K.G. Jayan, a distinguished figure who had been grappling with various health issues, is survived by his son, popular Malayalam actor Manoj K. Jayan. The world is set to bid him a final adieu as his cremation is scheduled for April 17th.
Roots of the legendary musician trace back to Kottayam where he was born to the late Gopalan Thanthrikal and late Narayani Amma on November 21, 1934. Jayan and his brother K.G. Vijayan carved a niche for themselves in the rich tapestry of Indian music, coming to be affectionately known as the ‘Jaya-Vijaya’ duo. It was the late Malayalam actor Jose Prakash who, recognizing their symbiotic tune, christened them thus during their collaboration in his plays.
A potpourri of over 1,000 musical compositions in films, theatrics, and devotional albums bear the hallmark of their genius. Even after Vijayan’s untimely departure in 1988, Jayan continued to serenade the world with devotional songs and kept alive the sacred tradition of Carnatic concerts.
His prodigious talent was apparent when he performed his arangetram at the age of nine. His initial tutelage was under the aegis of Raman Bhagavathar, which was further honed by the mentorship of Mavelikara Radhakrishna Iyer. Following their passion and dedication to music, the duo enrolled in advanced studies at the Swathi Thirunal College of Music in Thiruvananthapuram and emerged victorious in the ‘Ganabhooshanam’ course. Their unending quest for musical excellence led them to the doorstep of venerated maestros like Alathur Brothers, Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar, and M. Balamuralikrishna, from whom they imbibed the essence of Carnatic music.
Their collaborative efforts brought timeless music to an array of films including ‘Bhoomiyile Malakhamar’, ‘Dharmasastha’, ‘Nirakudam’, ‘Sneham’, ‘Theruvugeetham’, ‘Padhapooja’, ‘Shanmughapriya’, and ‘Pappathi’. Some of their songs that continue to resonate in the hearts of many are ‘Nakshatradeepangal Thilangi’, ‘Hridayam Devalayam’, and ‘Radhathan Premathodano’. Their devotional renditions to Lord Ayappa like ‘Sreekovil Nadathurannu’ and ‘Hariharasuthane’, some sung by the legendary P. Leela, are still cherished by devotional music enthusiasts.
Apart from enthralling listeners worldwide, Jayan was also a recipient of prestigious awards. In 2019, he was honored with the Padma Shri for his invaluable contribution to Carnatic music. His accolades list includes the Sangeetha Nataka Akademi award, awarded in 1991, and the Harivarasanam award, conferred in 2013, embellishing his decorated career.
As the twilight of his life fades away, the melodies composed by K.G. Jayan will continue to be the dawn for many music aficionados, attesting to the undying nature of art and its creators. His legacy will not merely be remembered; it will be celebrated, studied, and emulated by generations to come, ensuring that the maestro’s tune plays on, eternally.
