In shocking news, popular singer Bamba Bakya, who is best known among Tamil cinema fans for his songs like 'Simtaangaran' in Sarkar, Pullinangal' in 2.0, and more recently 'Ponni Nadhi' in Ponniyin Selvan, died in a hospital in Chennai. He was 49. An official statement regarding Bamba Bakya's death is awaited, but early reports suggest that the singer passed away due to cardiac arrest. According to reports, the hit singer had complained of chest pains and was admitted to hospital where he passed away at midnight on Thursday. 

Going by his real name Bhakkiyaraj, the singer was asked by Academy Award-winning composer A. R. Rahman to sing like the South African singer Bamba for the 'Pullinangal' in 'Superstar' Rajinikanth's 2.0 after which he was called Bamba Bakya. Known for his unique voice, he reached heights among Tamil cinema audiences after being used by A. R. Rahman for songs like 'Simtaangaran' and 'Kalame Kalame' in 'Thalapathy' Vijay's Sarkar, and Bigil. Having also sung several devotional songs over the course of his career, Bamba Bakya's last major contribution to a Tamil film was in the 'Ponni Nadhi' song for the upcoming Ponniyin Selvan. 

The untimely demise of Bamba Bakya has come as a major shock for many in the film industry, with many leading Tamil cinema names taking to social media to express their condolences. Actor Karthi tweeted, "Really saddened by the sudden demise of Bamba Bakiya. I pray that his family and friends have the strength to bear this huge loss. #RIPBambaBakiya." 

Lyricist Vivek paid his tributes and wrote, "It’s shocking. A great singer is no more. Pullinangal will always resonate in our ears. Working with him in Kaalame n Simtangaran is a special experience. My thought goes out to his family and @arrahman sir." 

Composer Santhosh Dayanidhi also tweeted, "Rest In peace brother @bambabakya #bambabakya gone too soon."