Chennai, India, July 20, 2025 – Tamil cinema’s beloved actor and lyricist Sivakarthikeyan moved fans and industry peers with a heartfelt tribute to the late lyricist Na. Muthukumar at a musical event titled Ananda Yaazhai in Chennai. The event, held to commemorate Muthukumar’s unparalleled contributions to Tamil film music, saw Sivakarthikeyan travel directly from the sets of his upcoming film Parasakthi in Pollachi to honor the legendary poet, showcasing his deep admiration and respect.
Na. Muthukumar, a two-time National Award-winning lyricist, passed away on August 14, 2016, at the age of 41 due to jaundice, leaving behind a legacy of over 1,500 songs that continue to resonate with audiences. Known for his evocative and poetic lyrics in films such as Veyil, Thuppakki, Aadukalam, and Dharmadurai, Muthukumar’s work captured the essence of Tamil culture and human emotions. His songs, including the National Award-winning Ananda Yazhai from Thanga Meengal and Azhage Azhagu from Saivam, remain timeless anthems in Tamil cinema.
Speaking at the event, Sivakarthikeyan reflected on Muthukumar’s profound influence, stating, “Na. Muthukumar has given his Tamil and poetry to everyone in this film industry. His contribution to Tamil cinema was immense. The question arises whether there will ever be another writer like him. His songs are still alive today.” He shared a personal connection, revealing that he listens to two of Muthukumar’s songs before writing lyrics himself, a testament to the late lyricist’s enduring inspiration. Sivakarthikeyan also expressed that his own foray into songwriting was partly driven by Muthukumar’s absence, adding, “Now that Na. Muthukumar is gone, I have to start writing songs myself.”
The Ananda Yaazhai event, named after one of Muthukumar’s iconic songs, was attended by numerous Tamil cinema luminaries, celebrating his lyrical genius. Sivakarthikeyan, who has penned lyrics for songs like Kalyaana Vayasu in Kolamaavu Kokila and Arabic Kuththu in Beast, has consistently donated his earnings as a lyricist to Muthukumar’s family, a gesture that has earned widespread praise. “When I first wrote lyrics, I asked for a salary, not for myself but for Na. Muthukumar’s family. This is not help; it’s my duty. He gave me beautiful songs,” Sivakarthikeyan said, emphasizing his personal connection to Muthukumar’s work, particularly the song Theivangal Ellam from Kedi Billa Killadi Ranga, which resonated deeply with him after the loss of his own father in 2003.
Fans and industry figures have lauded Sivakarthikeyan’s gesture, with social media posts highlighting his humility and commitment. One post noted, “Sivakarthikeyan has been donating all his earnings as a lyricist to Na. Muthukumar’s family. His love for him is irreplaceable.” Another described the actor’s effort to attend the event as “a gesture from the heart,” reflecting the emotional weight of his tribute.
Muthukumar’s legacy continues to inspire, with his poetic lines like “A one-sided love without him” encapsulating the longing and emotional depth that defined his work. His collaborations with composers like Yuvan Shankar Raja and G. V. Prakash Kumar produced chart-topping hits that remain etched in the hearts of fans. The Ananda Yaazhai event served as a poignant reminder of his indelible mark on Tamil cinema, with Sivakarthikeyan’s tribute underscoring the personal and professional void left by his passing.
As Sivakarthikeyan continues to shine as an actor, lyricist, and producer, his ongoing support for Muthukumar’s family—wife Jeevalakshmi and their two children—reflects a rare blend of stardom and selflessness. The event not only honored a literary giant but also highlighted the enduring bond between two artists, connected through the universal language of music and poetry.
