Kochi: Veteran playback singer P. Jayachandran, lovingly known as the "Bhava Gayakan," breathed his last on Thursday at the age of 80. With a career spanning over six decades, Jayachandran lent his voice to more than 16,000 songs across multiple Indian languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi. Known for his ability to evoke profound emotions through his singing, he left an indelible mark on Indian cinema with timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences.

Born on March 3, 1944, in Ernakulam, Jayachandran hailed from the aristocratic Tripunithura Kovilakam and Paliyam Palace. His musical journey began at a young age, influenced by his father’s passion for singing. After his debut with the song "Manjalayil Mungi Thorthi" in the film Kalithozhan, composed by G. Devarajan, there was no looking back. Over the years, he received numerous accolades, including a National Film Award, multiple state awards, and the prestigious JC Daniel Award for his outstanding contributions to cinema.

Jayachandran is survived by his wife Lalitha, daughter Lakshmi, and son Dinanathan, who continues his legacy in music. Tributes have poured in from the music and film industry, remembering him as an irreplaceable icon. Fans and contemporaries alike have celebrated his unmatched talent and humility, ensuring that his voice and legacy will endure for generations to come.