Great scenes require more than just visuals; They need an emotional resonance, and few composers in Indian cinema understand this better than Anirudh Ravichander. From his breakthrough hit Why This Kolaveri Di to composing soundtracks for blockbuster films like Vikram, Jaawaan, Jailer, Petta and Master, Anirudh has proven time and again that his music isn’t just about one film – it defines it. Does.

Today on his birthday (October 16), let’s trace his incredible musical journey and how he has become the go-to composer for larger-than-life moments primarily in Tamil and Telugu cinema.

Anirudh’s rise to fame began with 3 (2012), where Why This Kolaveri D became an instant sensation. The song was a viral phenomenon, not only for its quirky lyrics and catchy tune, but also because it introduced Anirudh’s unique style – playful yet deeply resonating. This style has since evolved, as seen in his work in various films.

Be it the energetic score for Rajinikanth’s Petta or the emotional depth of Nani’s Jersey, Anirudh’s music has evolved, reflecting his ability to balance mood and energy, enhancing both the narrative and the cinematic experience.

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His scores are known for bringing a feeling of power to the screen, energizing the audience even before the lead character arrives. Take Rajinikanth’s grand entries in Petta and Jailer, for example. Anirudh’s signature bass drops and pulsating beats propel these visuals, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

By the time the superstar finally enters, the crowd is already on their feet, and the music takes the moment to unforgettable heights. This is not limited to heroes only; This applies equally to opponents also. In Vikram, when Vijay Sethupathi’s character makes the much-awaited entry, it is the track Pablo Sandhanam that grabs the audience’s attention.

Anirudh builds the tension with surging beats, and when Sethupathi steps on screen, the excitement is palpable. The music forms an almost symbiotic relationship with the characters, as if the score is a part of the performance along with the actors.

The same influence can be seen in Thalapathy Vijay’s films, where Anirudh has created some of the most iconic title card themes. The Master’s famous Jedi intro theme has now become synonymous with Vijay’s presence. Used as the victory title card for both Leo and the Greatest of All Time (GOAT), this track has become a staple, heightening the sense of grandeur before the film even begins.

These themes are not just background music – they are part of the hero’s identity, contributing to a larger-than-life aura around the character.

Anirudh’s versatility shines in his collaborations with directors across genres, from the mass-action dramas of Jawan to the deep emotional tunes of Jersey and Remo.

While Anirudh Ravichander is famous for his epic, sweeping themes, his softer side is equally bright. His classically-influenced compositions, with Hindustani and Carnatic origins, demonstrate his versatility. The poignant Soul of Doctor theme from Sivakarthikeyan’s Doctor is a testament to his skill.

Anirudh as a singer

His ability to adapt to different cinematic styles makes his scores an integral part of Indian cinema. Even more impressive is his vocal range and texture, which adds a unique layer to his compositions. His voice – deep, textured and full of emotion – comes through, creating an additional connection between the song and the audience. Whether he is singing a sad song or lending his voice to a high-energy track, Anirudh’s singing has a quality that resonates deeply, which sets him apart in his own way.

From creating iconic entries for some of the biggest stars to giving voice to a generation of filmmakers, Anirudh Ravichander has become an integral part of the emotional landscape of cinema.

His music not only enhances the films but also makes them complete.