P Jayachandran, the voice behind many iconic songs that resonated with Malayalis for over five decades, has passed away, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. His funeral rites were held in front of his ancestral home, Chendamangalam Paliam Nalukettu, where his son Dinanathan lit the pyre after the guard of honour.

Born on March 3, 1944, in Ernakulam, Jayachandran was the son of Subhadra Kunjamma and Ravivarma Kochaniyan Thampuran. He grew up in his ancestral home in Paliam as the third of five children, where he developed an early interest in music. He earned recognition for his skills in mridangam and singing, winning prizes at the State School Youth Festival.

Jayachandran's journey into playback singing began in 1965 with the song 'Mullappoo Malaaakku...' from the film Kunjali Marakkar. The following year, his rendition of 'Manjalayil Mungithorthi...' in Kalithozhan catapulted him to fame. Over the years, he became known for his unforgettable songs like 'Rajeeva Nayane Neeyurangoo', 'Kevalam Marthyabhasha Kelkatha', and modern hits such as 'Poove Poove Palappoove' and 'Sharadambaram...'.

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Throughout his illustrious career, Jayachandran was honored with numerous accolades, including the 2021 J.C. Daniel Award for Comprehensive Contribution to Malayalam Cinema, the National Award for Best Playback Singer, five Kerala State Film Awards, and multiple Tamil Nadu State Awards. He also received the prestigious Kalaimamani Award from the Tamil Nadu Government and the 'Swaralaya Kairali Yesudas Award'.

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p jayachandran funeral

After battling cancer for over a year, Jayachandran's condition worsened, leading to his hospitalization at Amala Hospital in Thrissur. He was discharged briefly but was readmitted and passed away on Thursday evening at 7.54 pm. His passing marks the end of an era, but his melodious voice will continue to resonate in the hearts of his fans.