The prolific Tamil poet who transformed the landscape of Indian songwriting

Countries & Cities · Published 12 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Known as 'Kaviarasu' or the king of poets, Kannadasan was a force of nature in Tamil culture. From writing over 5,000 lyrics to producing historic films, his immense creative output and spiritual evolution left an indelible mark on Indian literature and cinema.

Born Muthiah Sathappan Chettiar in Sirukoodalpatti, Tamil Nadu, the man who would become Kannadasan underwent a profound spiritual transformation. Initially a follower of the Dravidian atheistic movement, he was deeply moved by the mystic poetry of the Thiruppaavai by Aandaal. This introspection led him back to Hinduism, prompting him to adopt the name Kannadasan, which signifies being a servant of Lord Krishna.

His literary and cinematic contributions were vast and varied. He was a prolific writer, producing 6,000 poems, 232 books, and more than 5,000 film lyrics. His work spanned genres from novels and epics to plays and essays. Notably, he authored 'Arthamulla Indhu Matham', a 10-part series that explains Hindu principles through simple language. His songwriting was so influential that he shifted the entire dynamic of the Tamil music industry, becoming the most sought-after lyricist until his death.

Kannadasan's life was marked by both immense achievement and personal struggle. He was the first recipient of the National Film Award for Best Lyrics in 1969 for the film 'Kuzhanthaikkaga' and won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1980 for his novel 'Cheraman Kathali'. Despite his success, he lived with cyclothymia, a condition within the bipolar disorder spectrum. At the time of his death in Chicago on 17 October 1981, he held the prestigious title of poet laureate for the Government of Tamil Nadu.

His legacy continues to be celebrated through various tributes. In 2026, a portrait made from over 1,000 eggshells was created to commemorate his birth centenary. Plans are currently being discussed to create university research chairs focused on his literary and cinematic impact, alongside efforts to translate his writings into Spanish, Chinese, and other global tongues.

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