Overview
- Deva died on Saturday, October 17, 2026, after being brought to Surya Hospital in Kodambakkam with chest pain; doctors said he had no pulse on arrival and could not be revived and had a history of prior bypass surgery.
- He composed for more than 400 films across Tamil and other South Indian languages and is credited with bringing gaana, a street-rooted colloquial song form, into mainstream cinema.
- Deva created enduring background cues for Rajinikanth films — notably the Annamalai and Baashha themes — that remain linked to the star’s on-screen persona.
- Political leaders including the Tamil Nadu governor and chief minister and numerous actors and musicians publicly offered condolences and recalled his warmth and influence.
- His family includes son and composer Srikanth Deva and the musical duo Sabesh–Murali, and sources say his mortal remains will be taken to his Vadapalani residence for public homage before the last rites.