Uma Ramanan, a name synonymous with mellifluous vocals and captivating stage presence, passed away on May 1, 2024, leaving a void in the hearts of countless music lovers. Aged 72, the veteran playback singer, predominantly known for her Tamil songs, had a thriving career spanning over three decades.
Uma Ramanan – Rooted in Carnatic Music:
Born in the 1950s in Tamil Nadu, Uma Ramanan’s musical foundation was laid early on. She underwent rigorous training in Carnatic music under the tutelage of Pazhani Vijayalakshmi. This classical grounding instilled in her a deep understanding of melody and rhythm, which became the hallmark of her singing. Her talent shone through during her inter-collegiate competitions, where she consistently won accolades.
From Stage to Screen
Uma Ramanan’s journey took a pivotal turn when she met A. V. Ramanan, is a television host, performer, and actor. He, impressed by her voice, sought her out for his stage concerts. This marked the beginning of a successful partnership, both professionally and personally. They soon became a well-coordinated duo, captivating audiences with their stage presence. Their blossomed into marriage, and together they had a son, Vignesh Ramanan, who also followed the musical path.
A Flourishing Filmography
Uma Ramanan’s foray into playback singing began in 1977 with the song “Mohanan Kannan Murali” from the film “Sri Krishna Leela.” However, it was her rendition of “Poongathave Thaal Thiravai” in the 1980 film “Nizhalgal,” composed by the legendary Ilaiyaraaja, that catapulted her to fame. This song’s popularity opened doors for her in the Tamil film industry.
Uma Ramanan’s career flourished as she collaborated with many renowned music composers, including Ilaiyaraaja (with whom she had a long-standing association), MS Viswanathan, T Rajender, Deva, Sirpi, Vidyasagar, and Mani Sharma. Her soulful voice lent itself beautifully to a diverse range of songs, from romantic ballads to peppy numbers.
Beyond Playback Singing:
Uma Ramanan wasn’t confined to playback singing. A trained dancer under the renowned Padma Subrahmanyam, she was a captivating live performer. Throughout her career, she enthralled audiences with over 6,000 concerts spanning 35 years. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with the audience through her music made her a beloved figure in the World of Tamil Music.
Uma Ramanan – A Legacy of Melody:
Uma Ramanan’s passing leaves a deep void in the Indian music scene. But her legacy lives on through the numerous songs she has gifted us. Her melodious voice and captivating stage presence will continue to resonate with music lovers for generations to come.
