P Jayachandran
Associated Songs
Aakaashadeepame azhakaarnna
Ponnunni njaan ninte
Kalyaanapraayamaanu
Kevala marthya
Vreelaa bharithayaay
Chuvarillaathe
Maaya Nayanangalil
Mazha Mazha Mazha
Pournamippoothingal
Karayum Thirayum (Bit)
Poy varoo poy varoo
Vaarmegha Varnnante
Thakida Thadhimi
Mounam Polum Madhuram
Chumma Ninneedalle
Neeyo Njaano njano neeyo
Enthinaayi Vennila
Azhakil Ozhuki
Nishaamanoharee
Manjolum raathri maanju
Biography
P Jayachandran: The Soulful Maestro of Malayalam Music
P Jayachandran, revered as “Bhava Gayakan” for his emotive and expressive renditions, was a legendary playback singer and artist in South Indian cinema. Born on March 3, 1944, in Paliyath Palace at Irinjalakuda, Thrissur, Kerala, he was the third son of Ravi Varma Kochaniyan Thampuran of Tripunithura Kovilakam and Subhadra. His musical journey began in childhood, influenced by early lessons in mridangam and devotional singing, eventually leading to a career that would shape the musical landscape of Malayalam and South Indian film music.
Jayachandran’s remarkable career spanned over six decades, during which he recorded more than 16,000 songs across Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. Known for his soulful voice and ability to convey deep emotion, he collaborated with icons like G. Devarajan, M. S. Baburaj, Ilaiyaraaja, A. R. Rahman, and many others. His breakout moment came with devotional songs and early film tracks, eventually earning him national prominence. Throughout his illustrious career, Jayachandran received numerous accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer (1986), five Kerala State Film Awards, two Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, and the prestigious J. C. Daniel Award in 2020 for his outstanding contributions to Malayalam cinema. He was lovingly known for hits like “Shiva Shankara Sharana Sarva Vibho” from Sree Narayana Guru and scores of evergreen melodies cherished by generations.
His legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Indian music, remembered for the sincerity and depth he brought to every song. P Jayachandran passed away on January 9, 2025, in Thrissur, Kerala, after battling illness, leaving behind a monumental repertoire and a lasting impact on Indian music. He is survived by his wife Lalitha, daughter Lakshmi, and son Dinanath, and is celebrated not only as a singer but as a cultural icon who bridged emotions with song.