M.S. Viswanathan

Biography

M. S. Viswanathan, fondly known as MSV, was one of the most influential and beloved music composers in Indian cinema. He played a defining role in shaping the sound of Tamil film music for several decades, creating melodies that remain evergreen across generations.

Early Life and Background
Manayangath Subramanian Viswanathan was born on 24 June 1928 in Palakkad, in present-day Kerala, and grew up in Tamil Nadu. He developed an early interest in music and trained under composer S. M. Subbaiah Naidu. His exposure to orchestration and film music during his formative years laid the foundation for a remarkable career.

Career in Film Music
M. S. Viswanathan began his career as an assistant and rose to prominence as part of the legendary composer duo Viswanathan–Ramamoorthy. Together, they dominated Tamil film music from the mid-1950s to the late 1960s, composing for numerous successful films. After the duo parted ways, MSV continued as a solo composer and enjoyed sustained success well into the 1970s and 1980s.

He composed music for over 700 films across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi cinema. Known for his versatility, MSV effortlessly blended classical ragas, folk influences, and Western musical elements. His songs were celebrated for their melodic richness, emotional depth, and memorable orchestration.

Apart from composing, he also worked as a playback singer and occasionally appeared on screen in supporting roles, further showcasing his multifaceted talent.

Awards and Legacy
MSV received numerous accolades during his lifetime, including national and state honors. He was awarded the Padma Shri in recognition of his immense contribution to Indian cinema. His music remains an integral part of South Indian cultural heritage.