K.J. Yesudas' house in Fort Kochi; 70-year-old mango tree remains landmark

K.J. Yesudas was born on January 10, 1940 and is widely regarded as one of India’s greatest playback singers.Over six decades he recorded over 50,000 songs in multiple languages. His soulful voice earned him the title “Gaanagandharvan” or the celestial singer.The ancestral home of legendary singer K.J. Yesudas in Fort Kochi has become the centre of attention. Kerala Tourism YouTube channel reports that the house which is known as 'House of Yesudas' is near Santa Cruz Basilica as a cultural spot.Recently the reports from The New Indian Express say that the local authorities have proposed turning it into a museum with a musical street. However the plan has hit a roadblock due to ownership issues. A 70-year-old mango tree stands at the centre of the property. Yesudas’s mother planted it many years ago.The tree was preserved during renovations with the building designed around it. Yesudas had personally insisted on protecting the landmark.The residence in Fort Kochi now functions as a café and restaurant. It still retains its link to the singer’s early years. Tourists visit the spot as part of the heritage trail.Reportedly, the local civic body allocated Rs 6 crore in the 2026–27 budget and the plan includes converting the Bastion Road house into a museum.It also proposes creating a dedicated musical street in tribute to Yesudas. This initiative aims to boost cultural tourism in Fort Kochi.C.A. Nazer currently owns the property and runs a hotel there. As reported by The New Indian Express, he stated that he has not been contacted by the corporation. Nazer made it clear he does not intend to hand over the house. This has created uncertainty over the proposed heritage project.