Legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja, 74, has been selected for the second highest civilian award in the country, the Padma Vibhushan by the Home Ministry of India. In a statement, the 'Isaignani' said, "The Padma Vibhushan award conferred upon me is an indication of PM Modi led government's respect to Tamil people and Tamil Nadu".


The Padma Vibhushan being conferred on the iconic composer comes after he was earlier bestowed with the Padma Bhushan in 2010. Ilaiyaraaja has also seen the pinnacle of success in the form of winning five National Film Awards. A composer, singer and songwriter, Ilaiyaraaja has scored music for over 1000 films (primarily in Tamil and a few in Hindi and other south Indian films) in a career that spans over four decades.


Post the announcement of the honors, the Tamil film fraternity took to Twitter to wish the 'Maestro' including Kamal Haasan. 

Actor turned politician Vijayakanth too conveyed his wishes to Ilayaraja. 

Academy Award-winning music director A. R. Rahman congratulated the veteran composer on the achievement. 

Actor Vishal said this is a proud moment for all of us. 

Actor and producer Manobala congratulated him and said he was most happy. 

Actor Kasthuri Shankar declared Ilaiyaraaja was a living god. 

Singer and actor Krish reminisced his experiences working with the composer and posted his wishes. 

Composer Devi Sri Prasad too went on to proclaim Ilaiyaraaja will always be the "King" and an inspiration to all.

Team Galatta takes this opportunity to wish Ilaiyaraaja sir on this historic accomplishment.