Chennai: Noted Tamil poet and celebrated film lyricist Vairamuthu has been conferred the prestigious Jnanpith Award, the highest honour in Indian literature.

The 72-year-old writer, who has authored nearly 40 books spanning poetry, travelogues and translations, becomes the third literary figure from Tamil Nadu to receive the award. Earlier, noted novelists Akilan and Jayakanthan were honoured with the same recognition.

Among Vairamuthu’s prominent literary works is Kavirajan Kathai, a poetic work based on freedom fighter and modernist Tamil poet C. Subramania Bharath.

A master’s graduate from Pachaiyappa's College in Chennai, Vairamuthu initially worked as a translator while continuing to pursue poetry.

He entered the Tamil film industry in 1980 with the movie Nizhalgal, directed by Bharathiraja with music composed by Ilaiyaraaja. Over a film career spanning more than four decades, he has written more than 7,500 songs and poems.

Vairamuthu has received seven National Film Awards, the highest number won by any Indian lyricist. In recognition of his contributions to literature and the arts, he has also been honoured with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and the Sahitya Akademi Award.