Kozhikode Pushpa, renowned for her iconic performance in the Malayalam film Neelakuyil, has passed away at the age of 84. She died peacefully at her residence in Kottivakkam, Chennai, on Thursday at 10 a.m.
Pushpa’s fame was cemented with her rendition of the song “Kadalaasu Vanchiyeri KadaIum Kadannu Keri” from the classic 1954 film Neelakuyil. At just 14 years old, Pushpa’s voice, set to the lyrics of P. Bhaskaran and the composition of K. Raghavan, captured the hearts of many. Her initial foray into the music scene included two songs in the 1953 film Lokaneethi, but it was her work on Neelakuyil that truly marked her career.
Her journey in music began when P. Bhaskaran heard her perform “Sulalitha Sumadhura” on Kozhikode Akashvani in 1950 and invited her to be part of Neelakuyil. Despite her early success, Pushpa’s career was interrupted by marriage and other personal commitments.
Originally from Thalassery, Pushpa was born and raised in Janaki Mandiram house near Mavoor Road, Kozhikode. She was the youngest of three siblings, including her elder sisters Tulsi and Kausalya, who were known as the Calicut Sisters and performed together. Pushpa learned music from her sisters, which laid the foundation for her future success.
Pushpa’s husband, K.V. Sukurajan, has passed away, and she is survived by her children: the late Pushparaj Vachali, Surya, and Saira. The funeral service will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. at Besant Nagar Crematorium, Chennai.
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