Sreekumaran Thampi turns 84: A maestro who has been charming generations with his lyrics, music

At 84, Sreekumaran Thampi continues to be one of the biggest names associated with Malayalam cinema. Though a man fondly known for his ability to don several hats, Thampi is mostly remembered for his lyrics and his musical compositions. On his special day, we take a look at some of the best songs written by the lyricist, crooned by some of the greatest singers in Malayalam.

Chandrikayilaliyunnu
The musical track from the 1968 Malayalam movie 'Bharyamar Sookshikkuva' was penned by Sreekumaran Thampi. The song was composed by V Daskhinamoorthy and crooned by K J Yesudas and P Leela. Though Thampi wrote the lyrics for all the songs in the movie, Chandrikayilaliyunnu is a favourite for many.

Chandanathottililla
Though Sreekumaran Thampi is known mostly for penning lyrics for romantic numbers, some of his best works are lullabies, including Chandanathottililla from the movie 'Nazhikakkallu'. The song, composed by Kanu Ghosh was sung in S Janaki's melodious voice. In the narrative, the mother comforts her young child, even as she sings about the harsh realities of their life. Malarkkodipole from the movie 'Vishukkani' is yet another lullaby written by Thampi.

Nin Padangalil
The song 'Nin Padangalil Nritham Aadeedum' was also part of the romantic film 'Nazhikakkallu' featuring Prem Nazir and Sheela. P Jayachandran's vocals added depth to the song, written by Sreekumaran Thampi. Thampi, reportedly, wrote the lyrics of the song to an already composed tune, which was a first for him.

Kasturi Manakkunnallo
The song from the movie 'Picnic', which hit theatres in 1975, was composed by M K Arjunan with lyrics by Sreekumaran Thampi. The courtship song was crooned by K J Yesudas and captures the budding romance between two lovers. Thampi's romantic lines and the ethereal composition were the highlights of the song.

Akale Akale Neelakasham
The song from 'Midumidukki' was one of the many numbers composed by M S Baburaj with lyrics by Sreekumaran Thampi. Singers K J Yesudas and S Janaki created magic with the song. The lyrics captures happiness and sorrow at the same time, lending a beautiful aura to the song.