CM MK Stalin Meets Ilaiyaraaja, Lauds His Historic Symphony Performance in London

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recently visited legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja at his residence to congratulate him on his groundbreaking symphony performance in London. Hailing Ilaiyaraaja as the "music breath" of the Tamil people, Stalin praised the maestro’s achievement as a historic milestone for an Asian musician.

During their heartfelt meeting, Ilaiyaraaja shared his symphony notes with the Chief Minister, who, in turn, expressed his deep admiration for the composer’s timeless works—particularly those sung by the late S. P. Balasubrahmanyam.

Ilaiyaraaja’s London Symphony: A Historic Moment for Indian Music:

Ilaiyaraaja is set to perform his first full-fledged Western classical symphony, titled 'Valiant' (Symphony No. 1), at the prestigious Eventim Apollo in London on March 8, 2025. This marks a momentous occasion, as it is the first-ever symphony by an Indian composer to be performed in the UK. With tickets already in high demand, music enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly awaiting this landmark event.

Collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra:

For this historic performance, Ilaiyaraaja will be joined by the renowned Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, creating a unique fusion of Western classical and Indian musical traditions. This collaboration underscores Ilaiyaraaja’s ability to transcend cultural and musical boundaries, reinforcing his stature as a global musical icon.

Tributes and Congratulations Pour In:

Several prominent figures from the film industry and political sphere have extended their best wishes to Ilaiyaraaja ahead of this monumental event:

Kamal Haasan, a longtime admirer of Ilaiyaraaja, lauded the maestro’s symphony debut, stating that it will "blaze a trail across genres" and continue to inspire generations.
 

Maestro @ilaiyaraaja , you continue to inspire. Your Symphony No. 1 – 'Valiant' debut in London is set to blaze a trail across genres. The world eagerly awaits the symphonic brilliance you are about to create! pic.twitter.com/9uEAgy4mY2

— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) February 24, 2025

Sivakarthikeyan made a surprise visit to Ilaiyaraaja’s residence, gifting him a musical instrument shaped like a peacock as a token of admiration and wishing him great success.

 
Political leaders G. K. Vasan and Thol. Thirumavalavan also expressed their appreciation, recognizing Ilaiyaraaja’s pioneering contribution to global music and his remarkable achievement of bringing Indian musical brilliance to the world stage.

With global anticipation building, Ilaiyaraaja’s upcoming symphony in London is poised to be a historic event that cements his legacy as one of the greatest composers of all time.