Superstar Rajinikanth was visibly emotional as he paid his final respects to legendary music composer Thenisai Thendral Deva, who passed away on October 17, 2026, at the age of 75.

The Superstar visited Deva’s residence in Chennai to offer his condolences to the bereaved family. Following his visit, Rajinikanth shared a heartfelt video tribute, remembering not just their successful musical collaborations but also the composer’s humility, generosity and extraordinary character.

One particular memory stood out in Rajinikanth’s tribute. Recalling how Deva reacted when he chose A. R. Rahman for Padayappa, the Superstar described his friend as “a person of pure gold.”

It was an emotional farewell to a composer whose music had become an inseparable part of Rajinikanth’s cinematic legacy.

RAJINI’S HEARTFELT WORDS ABOUT DEVA

Recalling their professional association, Rajinikanth said Deva had composed music for three of his films — Annamalai, Baashha and Arunachalam — all of which became major successes.

The Superstar then spoke about a difficult conversation during the making of Padayappa.

Rajinikanth explained that his friends had encouraged him to work with A. R. Rahman for the film. Since Deva had already delivered successful soundtracks for three of his films, Rajini found it difficult to convey the decision to his friend.

He approached Deva with a heavy heart, explaining the situation and asking him not to misunderstand his decision.

But Deva’s response revealed the kind of person he was.

According to Rajinikanth, Deva stood up, held his hand and graciously encouraged him to work with Rahman. He acknowledged Rahman’s emerging talent and expressed happiness that Rajinikanth was moving forward with the project.

Deva also felt fortunate to have composed music for three of the Superstar’s films.

Remembering this incident, Rajinikanth praised Deva for having no hidden malice or deceit. To the Superstar, Deva was a genuinely good-hearted person who valued friendship above professional rivalry.

“He was pure gold” was Rajinikanth’s touching description of the late composer.

THREE FILMS, THREE MEMORABLE MUSICAL ASSOCIATIONS

Deva and Rajinikanth collaborated on three landmark films that remain popular among Tamil cinema fans.

1. Annamalai (1992)

The beginning of their celebrated association, Annamalai featured music that complemented Rajinikanth’s transformation from a humble milkman into a successful businessman.

Deva’s energetic compositions and the film’s memorable musical moments helped establish the foundation of their successful partnership.

2. Baashha (1995)

If one collaboration defines the musical connection between Rajinikanth and Deva, it is undoubtedly Baashha.

The film’s powerful background score and iconic Superstar title-card music became synonymous with Rajinikanth’s screen presence. The unforgettable theme continues to electrify audiences whenever it is played.

Deva’s music helped amplify the mystery, intensity and larger-than-life aura of Manickam, the character who became one of the most celebrated roles in Rajinikanth’s career.

Even today, the Baashha theme remains a favourite among Thalaivar fans.

3. Arunachalam (1997)

Their third major collaboration continued the successful combination of Rajinikanth’s charisma and Deva’s energetic musical style.

With its memorable songs and engaging background score, Arunachalam further strengthened their association and added another popular soundtrack to their shared legacy.

Together, these three films represent a special chapter in the musical history of Rajinikanth’s career.

RAJINI’S SPECTACULAR ENTRY AT DEVA’S MUSICAL CONCERT

Their friendship extended far beyond film sets and recording studios.

In 2022, Rajinikanth attended Deva’s Devathe Deva musical concert at Chennai’s Nehru Indoor Stadium. The Superstar’s appearance became one of the memorable moments of the event.

As the iconic Baashha theme played, Rajinikanth made his grand entry, sending the audience into a frenzy. The crowd erupted with excitement as the Superstar appeared and embraced Deva on stage.

The moment brought together two artists whose collaboration had given audiences some of Tamil cinema’s most unforgettable musical memories.

Rajinikanth also recalled that Deva had approached him about organising live concerts and requested that he inaugurate one. The Superstar happily agreed.

Deva subsequently took his music to audiences overseas, receiving an enthusiastic response from fans across generations.

For Rajinikanth, seeing his friend enjoy this renewed appreciation was a source of happiness.

DEVA’S STRUGGLES, SACRIFICES AND LOVE FOR HIS FAMILY

Beyond his musical achievements, Rajinikanth remembered Deva as a man who had worked hard to overcome the difficulties of his early life.

The composer performed at wedding functions and other musical programmes to support his family and help his younger brothers. These performances were an important part of his journey before he established himself in the film industry.

Even after achieving fame and success, Deva remained devoted to his family and continued to support his brothers.

Rajinikanth praised him as a wonderful family man who never forgot his responsibilities or the people who had stood beside him.

The Superstar also acknowledged Deva’s determination to establish his own musical identity at a time when Ilaiyaraaja was a dominant force in Tamil cinema.

Through his distinctive compositions, catchy melodies and energetic rhythms, Deva carved out a place of his own in the industry.

Fondly known as Thenisai Thendral, he also played a significant role in bringing Chennai’s gaana music to a wider film audience.

His career became a testament to perseverance, talent and hard work.

“I WILL LIVE ANOTHER 10–15 YEARS” — DEVA’S FINAL HAPPY MEMORIES

One of the most poignant parts of Rajinikanth’s tribute concerned a recent meeting with Deva.

The composer had returned from an overseas concert tour and met the Superstar to share his happiness about the response to his performances.

Deva was particularly delighted that younger audiences were enthusiastically enjoying his music.

According to Rajinikanth, the composer expressed how happy he felt and said he hoped to live another 10 to 15 years with that happiness.

Those words took on a heartbreaking significance following Deva’s sudden demise.

Reflecting on the loss, Rajinikanth spoke about how life had taken his friend away when he was enjoying a particularly fulfilling period.

He offered his deepest condolences to Deva’s family and prayed for the departed composer's soul to rest in peace.

The tribute revealed how deeply the loss had affected the Superstar. Beyond the professional relationship, Rajinikanth was mourning a friend whose kindness had left a lasting impression on him.

RAJINIKANTH PAYS HIS FINAL RESPECTS

Rajinikanth’s visit to Deva’s residence in Chennai was among the moments that captured the grief surrounding the composer’s passing.

The Superstar paid his respects and offered comfort to the bereaved family. Tamil cinema personalities and political leaders also visited to honour the veteran musician.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay subsequently visited Deva’s residence and consoled the family. The state government announced that the composer would receive state honours during his final rites in recognition of his contribution to music.

Deva’s passing marked the end of an era for a composer whose songs had entertained audiences across generations.

THE MUSIC LIVES ON. THE MEMORIES LIVE FOREVER.

Deva’s contribution to Rajinikanth’s cinematic identity cannot be measured by the number of films they worked on together.

From the unforgettable musical moments of Annamalai to the legendary theme of Baashha and the vibrant soundtrack of Arunachalam, their collaboration produced memories that continue to resonate with fans.

But Rajinikanth’s farewell revealed something even more enduring than their musical legacy: the respect he held for Deva as a human being.

The composer’s gracious response during the making of Padayappa, his dedication to his family and his joy at seeing younger generations embrace his music all painted a picture of a man who remained humble despite his achievements.

A legendary composer. A generous heart. An unforgettable friendship.

Deva may no longer be with us, but his music will continue to echo wherever Rajinikanth’s iconic screen presence lights up the silver screen.

Rest in peace, Thenisai Thendral Deva. Your music will live forever in the hearts of Thalaivar’s fans.

Watch Rajinikanth’s emotional tribute to Deva

Watch the video tribute here: