Manikka Vinayagam

Biography:

Manikka Vinayagam, an accomplished Indian playback singer and actor, left a notable legacy in the South Indian entertainment industry. Born on December 10, 1943, in Mayiladuthurai, during the Madras Presidency, he was the son of the renowned Bharatanatyam dancer Vazhuvoor B. Ramiah Pillai and received musical guidance from his uncle, the versatile singer, music director, and actor C. S. Jayaraman. Vinayagam’s exposure to Carnatic and Hindustani music began under his uncle’s tutelage, and he even took up the Nadaswaram, a wind instrument, in his youth.

His musical journey commenced with his debut as a playback singer in the Tamil film “Dhill,” where he lent his voice to the song “Kannukkulla Gelathi,” composed by Vidyasagar. Additionally, Vinayagam ventured into acting, portraying various character roles in Tamil films, including his debut as a father figure in “Thiruda Thirudi” alongside Dhanush. With a prolific career, he sang approximately 800 songs across various languages and genres, including devotional, folk, love, and Carnatic music, totaling close to 15,000 songs. Vinayagam also led an orchestra called Starlings, comprising musicians and singers who were the offspring of other actors.

Tragically, Manikka Vinayagam passed away from a cardiac arrest at his residence in Chennai on December 26, 2021, at the age of 78. His contributions to the world of music and cinema continue to be celebrated and cherished by his fans and the industry.