CHENNAI: Well known devotional singer Pithukuli Murugadas (96) died here at 3.30 a.m., today at his residence in Mylapore. He was suffering from breathing problem for quite some time.
He is survived by his sister Thangam. The final rites are scheduled to take place at 3 p.m., today at Krishnampet crematorium.
Born in Coimbatore on February 25, 1920, he studied upto eighth standard. His original name was Balasubramanian. His followers fondly addressed him as 'Muruga'. He had composed many a songs on Goddess Devi, Lord Muruga, and Lord Krishna. He is known for spreading the verses of Arunagirinathar's Thirupugazh, Kandhar Alankaram, Kandhar Anubhuthi, Vel Vaguppu, Devendra Sanga Vaguppu, etc. His wife Devi Saroja passed away in 1978.
'Pithukuli' in Tamil means insane or mad. Once Brahmananda Paradesiyar, a monk called him 'Pithukuli' and told him that he would one day become like him. Thus 'Pithukuli' became his new name and signature.