Love, Memory and Melody: Ilaiyaraaja Returns to Genting for a Valentine’s Symphony
KUALA LUMPUR — For many, Ilaiyaraaja is more than a composer — he is the soundtrack of love, longing and timeless cinematic moments. This Saturday, the legendary maestro returns to Malaysia for Raaja Rhapsody 2.0 at the Arena of Stars, promising an evening steeped in nostalgia and romance.
The Valentine’s concert follows last year’s memorable performance that drew thousands despite heavy rain, reaffirming his enduring connection with Malaysian audiences.
Architect of Emotional Soundscapes
Born Gnanathesigan in Tamil Nadu, Ilaiyaraaja debuted as a film composer in 1976 with Annakili. Over nearly five decades, he has scored more than 1,400 films, earning five National Awards and reshaping Indian film music with his distinctive fusion of folk traditions and Western orchestration.
His melodies have become interwoven with the emotional fabric of generations, defining countless love stories on and off screen.
From Cinema to Symphony
In 1993, Ilaiyaraaja became the first Asian composer to record a symphony with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London — a milestone that elevated his global stature.
More recently, in March 2025, he performed a full Western classical symphony at London’s Eventim Apollo, underscoring his versatility beyond cinema.
The Genting concert is expected to feature grand orchestral arrangements of his most cherished romantic compositions, offering audiences a sweeping musical journey.
A Night of Family and Legacy
Sharing the stage will be his brother, composer Gangai Amaran, alongside acclaimed vocalists SP Charan, Shweta Mohan, and Yugendran Vasudevan.
Together, they will revisit timeless classics, blending nostalgia with contemporary performance energy.
Raaja Rhapsody 2.0 is set to be more than a Valentine’s concert — it is a celebration of a musical legacy that continues to define romance across generations.
-wilayah.com.my
