TV host and playback singer Uma Ramanan, who was reportedly battling an illness, passed away on May 1 in Chennai. She is survived by her husband AV Ramanan and her son Vignesh Ramanan.  

The Ananda Raagam singer was a trained classical singer and performed in more than 6,000 concerts in over three decades. Her journey started with the track Mohanan Kanna Murali by SV Venkatraman and she is also known for her multiple collaborations with legendary music composer Illayaraaja. 

Uma’s Poongathave Thaal Thiravai ffrom the film Nizhagal, composed by Illayaraja captured the hearts of many and made her a household name. They both have joined forces for more than 100 tracks. She also sang for many other composers like Vidyasagar, Mani Sharma and Srikanth Deva. 

Her most popular songs include Anandha Raagam from Panneer Pushpangal, Kanmani Nee Vara from Thendrale Ennai Thodu, Bhoopalam Isaikkum from Thooral Ninnu Pochu and Sri Ranga Ranganathanin from Mahanadi and many more.

Many of her fans were heartbroken about her demise and took to X to share their condolences to her family. Uma’s last song was Kannum Kannumthan Kalandaachu for Thalapathy Vijay’s Thirupachi (2005).