K Mukundadas, the voice of Thalassery, signs off

Thalassery: Thalassery K Mukundadas, whose harmonium and melodious voice enchanted audiences for over seven decades, has passed away after a musical journey spanning seven decades

Always seen with a disarming smile, Mukundadas was a talent often overlooked. He never chased recognition, though he richly deserved it. Instead, he remained devoted to music.

Mukundadas learned music from his father, C K Nair, a theatre actor and singer and his uncle, Ravunni Nair, a Carnatic musician. His first guru was Chanthukutty Bhagavathar of Eruvatty. He won first prize in harmonium while in the ninth standard. He composed music for numerous songs of the Edathatta Ramadevi Bhakthasangam, many of which were broadcast on All India Radio. He collaborated with music composer Kannur Rajan for five years. Though invited to Madras, Mukundadas chose the home stages.

He served as both music composer and singer for Kannur Nadana Kalakshethram. He composed background scores for the music concerts of Palayadu Yasodha and the Mappilpattu performances of A P Ummarkutty. He also studied Hindustani music under the renowned musician Tirur Shah.

Mukundadas composed for the music cassettes of many celebrated singers. He was a constant presence at music venues in Thalassery, Vadakara and Kannur. He passed away yesterday due to age-related complications.