Legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja says learning keeps him going even after 1,541 films

Musical genius Ilaiyaraaja is one of the greatest composers who has had an enormous career since he began his journey in 1968. Having worked on multiple projects, one might think, “he’s music” and knows everything about it. However, he recently claimed that he is still learning. He believes that if he felt he knew everything, he would have stopped long ago.

As per a report by CineExpress, while speaking at the 11th Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival, he said learning is what keeps him going. He told the audience, “I don’t know music.” He said this is the reason he is still working every day.

Composed for 1,541 films and still moving

Ilaiyaraaja revealed that he came to the event after finishing work on his 1,541st film. He said people often ask him how he creates so many tunes. He repeated his famous line, “I don’t know music.” He added, “That is why I am still working.” He said change keeps coming, and he keeps learning new things when it does. This fire inside him, he said, is the reason for his long career.

Live music brings real feeling

Talking about change, Ilaiyaraaja said music was very different when he started around 1968. There was no technology back then. Today, music is easier because of keyboards and electronic tools. But he still records with a live orchestra. He said, “I write down the notations for every single instrument.” He added, “I am not against electronic instruments, but the emotion from the music can only come with live instruments.”

Honoured at the AIFF event

The Padma Bhushan awardee was honoured with the Padmapani Award at the festival. The event was held at the MGM campus in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The award was given by AIFF Chairperson Nandkishore Kagliwal, MGM University Chancellor Ankushrao Kadam, and Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty.

Last year, in 2025, on the occasion of Diwali, he announced that he was working on his new symphony. In the video he shared on social media, he said, "On this festive occasion of Diwali, I wanted to convey that I will begin work on my next symphony. Along with that, I am working on a new musical venture, Symphonic Dances."Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”