FOR the first time, India’s famous music composer, Deva, who is fondly known as ‘Thenisai Thendral Deva’, will be performing live in a concert in Penang at Setia SPICE Arena on Oct 21.
Deva, 72, who has been in the industry for more than three decades now and composed songs for more than 400 films, is not only coming to Penang with his musical talents but is officially visiting the state for the first time too.
During an exclusive interview with Buletin Mutiara today, he said he has always wanted to come to Penang and was delighted to have finally had the chance to explore the state now.
“Penang has beautiful beaches and a place to be for nature lovers.
“I would like to thank City Production, the main organiser of this concert, for making this happen after we had successfully performed in Kuala Lumpur in June this year.
“We aim to make all the people of Penang happy and to give them all an unforgettable musical experience.
“This Saturday, come with your families and friends to Setia SPICE Arena and witness the concert as we are all eagerly waiting to perform for all of you,” Deva said during the interview.
Deva, throughout his illustrious career, has composed music for well-known actors, such as Superstar Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Ajith Kumar, Vijay and many others.
Some of his compositions for movies like Baasha, Avvai Shanmugi, Kushi, Red, Arunachalam and Annamalai remain timeless classics.
Just like his concert in Kuala Lumpur, Deva is here with his entire crew, which includes several popular singers and musicians, such as Mano, Anuradha Sriram, Srikanth Deva (Deva’s son), Sabesh-Murali (Deva’s brothers).
Some notable former Super Singer (reality television singing competition) participants, such as Priyanka Deshpande, Sathya Narayanan, Dhivagaran Santhosh and Pooja will also be performing.
Apart from melody, Deva is very well-known for composing ‘Gaana’ songs.
Gaana is a traditional Chennai folk music genre that has gained worldwide recognition, and Deva, as an experienced Gaana composer, has played an important role in its global popularity.
His brothers, Sabesh-Murali (duo) have sung many Gaana songs composed by Deva, and fans can expect a musical treat this Saturday!
Meanwhile, singers Hariharan and Unni Krishnan, two individuals who are an important part of Deva’s musical career, will miss out on the concert due to other commitments (concert tours) elsewhere.
Earlier, Deva had the opportunity to visit the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple in Pulau Tikus and admire the famous mural art (Children on a Bicycle) at Armenian Street.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis