Tamil Playback Singer Uma Ramanan Dies In Chennai at 69

Tamil singer Uma Ramanan passed away on May 1, as per several reports. The singer died in Chennai at the age of 69. However, the cause of her death is still unknown. She is survived by her singer-husband AV Ramanan and her son, Vignesh Ramanan. Details about her funeral are also awaited. Uma was one of Ilaiyaraaja’s longtime collaborators. Their song, Poongathave Thalthiravai, for the film Nizhalgal, shot her to fame and made her a household name.

The news of her death has left fans heartbroken. Several fans took to X and shared tributes. “Woke up to the sad news of passing away of singer Mrs Uma Ramanan. In this age of Super Singers and performers where the singers act more than they sing, here is Mrs Uma Ramanan bringing such complex emotions through her voice with zero indications on her face. What a singer! Om Shanthi Mam ,” a fan wrote.

“There is a word in English – Ethereal. That’s the word I would use to describe #UmaRamanan’s voice—the most delicate voice that gives us a mystique feeling. Thanks for singing those songs. Farewell. The first song that came to my mind was this from Nandu,” added another.

Uma and Ilaiyaraaja delivered several hits together. These included Oru Jeevan Alaithathu from Geetanjali, Aagava Vennilave from Arangetra Velai, Poopalam Isaikum from Thambikku Entha Ooru, Poongathave Thal Thiravai from Nilalgal, and Nee Padhi Naan Padhi Kanne from Keladi Kanmani, among many others.