Bengaluru: Veteran percussionist and drummer Deva, widely regarded as the ‘Sivamani of Kannada cinema’, died following prolonged health complications. He was 64.
Deva had been battling health issues for around three-and-a-half years. His condition worsened after he developed gangrene, which eventually led to the amputation of one of his legs. Despite the setback, he continued pursuing his passion for music and played the drums with the assistance of a prosthetic limb.
He had been receiving treatment at a Bengaluru hospital for nearly a month before returning home recently. His health reportedly deteriorated over the past two days, and he died despite medical intervention.
Deva made a significant contribution to Kannada film music, playing drums for more than 300 songs featuring some of the industry’s leading stars, including Dr Rajkumar, Vishnuvardhan, Ambareesh and Puneeth Rajkumar.
Over the course of his career, he worked with several prominent music directors, including Sadhu Kokila and Gurukiran. Besides being a sought-after session musician, Deva also ventured into film music direction and composed music for 5 Idiots and Preethi Nee Hingyake.
His talent also earned him recognition among television viewers. He became a familiar face through his drumming performances on Udaya TV’s popular programme Aksharamale.
Known for his distinctive percussion style and dedication to music, Deva’s career spanned several decades and contributed to the soundscape of Kannada cinema. His death marks the loss of a veteran musician who remained committed to his craft despite serious health challenges.
