Gangai Amaran slams rumours about Ilaiyaraaja, says ‘Let him live peacefully’

Veteran musician and actor Gangai Amaran reacted strongly to recent comments about his brother, Ilaiyaraaja. Speaking at the audio launch event of his album 'Uyirinaye' held at Prasad Lab in Chennai, Gangai Amaran said it was painful to hear false claims about Ilaiyaraaja’s personal life. He criticized actor and film critic Bayilvan Ranganathan for allegedly saying that Ilaiyaraaja was living alone without support.

“People should not speak about things they do not know,” Gangai Amaran said firmly. He added that spreading such stories without understanding the reality was unfair and disrespectful to a legendary artist.

Gangai Amaran's strong words against false narratives

During his speech, Gangai Amaran questioned why anyone would try to portray Ilaiyaraaja in a negative way after his massive contribution to Indian music. As reported by Cinema Vikatan, he emotionally said, “Why should someone say he has no one and is suffering? Did they come and see his house?” The composer explained that Ilaiyaraaja’s sons, Yuvan Shankar Raja and Karthik Raja, are doing well and staying connected with the family. He also pointed out that outsiders cannot understand what happens inside a home. Gangai Amaran said people should avoid making assumptions about someone’s personal life just for attention or headlines. His emotional defence of his brother received support from fans online.

A life centered around music and peace

Gangai Amaran further explained that Ilaiyaraaja chooses a quiet and peaceful lifestyle because he likes spending time composing music and being with himself. “Even when I go to meet him, he sits quietly writing music,” he shared. He added that choosing solitude should not be misunderstood as loneliness. According to him, Ilaiyaraaja has always been deeply connected to music and creativity, and that is the life he prefers. Gangai Amaran requested people and media platforms not to insult or emotionally hurt senior artists with unnecessary rumours. He said such comments become painful, especially after spending more than five decades in the music industry.

Gangai Amaran calls for respect and understanding

The veteran composer also revealed that he personally contacted Bayilvan Ranganathan and questioned him about the comments. According to Gangai Amaran, Bayilvan later apologized for his statements. “This is a very cheap thing to do,” he said while expressing disappointment over the issue. He ended his speech with an emotional appeal, asking everyone to respect Ilaiyaraaja’s personal space and lifestyle. “Ilaiyaraaja is seeking peace. Let him live the way he wants,” he said. His heartfelt words reflected not only brotherly affection but also the frustration of a family hurt by repeated rumours and public assumptions.