Ponni Nadhi singer Bamba Bakya passes away

Singer Bamba Bakya, who recently sang the single, Ponni Nadhi in Mani Ratnam's Ponniyin Selvan passed away today in Chennai. He was 49. Bamba Bakya was said to have been rushed to the hospital when he complained of discomfort in his body. An official statement about his demise is yet to be shared.

Bamba Bakya was known for his baritone voice and his experimental songs. He had frequently collaborated with AR Rahman and was said to be one of Rahman's great finds. The singer has a number of hit songs to his credit including Simtaangaran from Vijay' Sarkar, Pullinangal from Rajinikanth's 2.0 and Kalame Kalame from Vijay's Bigil. The singer's real name is Bakkiyaraj but Rahman is said to have tweaked the name. The singer has also sung many devotional songs. A number of celebrities took to their social media page to express their grief.

AR Rahman's daughter Khatija wrote on her Instagram page, "Rest in peace brother. Can't believe you've passed away. Such a wonderful person and musician (sic)."

Music composer Harris Jayaraj wrote, " @bambabakya Very unique talent and a sweet person. Gone so soon. Rest In Peace (sic)."

Karthi, who features in Bamba Bakya's last song Ponni Nadhi, too expressed gis condolences on his social media handle. "Really saddened by the sudden demise of Bamba Bakiya. I pray that his family and friends have the strength to bear this huge loss. #RIPBambaBakiya (sic).

Lyricist Vivek wrote that working with the singer was as a special experience." It’s shocking. A great singer is no more. Pullinangal will always resonate in our ears. Working with him in Kaalame n Simtangaran is a special experience. My thought goes out to his family and @arrahman sir (sic)."

Actor Shanthnu Bhagyaraj wrote, "Loved his voice 💛 Gone too soon 💔 #Rip #bambabakya anna 🙏🏻 (sic)."