L. R. Eswari Biography, Age, Early Life, Career, and More
- R. Eswari is a celebrated playback singer in the South Indian film industry, renowned for her powerful and versatile voice. With a career spanning over six decades, she has sung in various languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi. Eswari is particularly known for her unique ability to deliver devotional songs and energetic numbers with equal brilliance. She has contributed immensely to the golden era of South Indian cinema and remains an iconic figure in Indian music.
Personal Details Table
Full Name | Lourde-Mary Rajeshwari Eswari |
Date of Birth | December 7, 1939 |
Age | 84 years (as of 2024) |
Birthplace | Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
Nationality | Indian |
Profession | Playback Singer |
Genres | Playback, Devotional, Folk |
Languages Sung | Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi |
Years Active | 1958–present |
Famous Songs | “Vaarayo Vennilave,” “Kandan Karunai,” “Paalu Vikkira Padama” |
Awards | Kalaimamani Award, Tamil Nadu State Film Awards |
L. R. Eswari: Biography
- R. Eswari was born on December 7, 1939, in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, into a family deeply rooted in music. Her mother was a classical singer, and from a young age, Eswari was exposed to a rich cultural and musical environment. She began her formal training in Carnatic music at a young age, showing early signs of her musical talent. Over the course of her career, Eswari has established herself as one of the most versatile playback singers in South India, with a unique voice that can handle a wide range of musical genres.
Her contribution to devotional songs and film music, particularly in the Tamil and Telugu film industries, has made her a household name. Eswari’s voice has the ability to transcend genres, making her a beloved figure in both cinema and religious music circles.
L. R. Eswari: Age
As of 2024, L. R. Eswari is 84 years old. Despite her age, she continues to sing and perform, showcasing her undying passion for music. Her longevity in the music industry is a testament to her dedication and talent, making her one of the most respected figures in South Indian music.
Early Life
- R. Eswari was born into a Roman Catholic family in Chennai. Her birth name, Lourde-Mary Rajeshwari, reflects her religious background, but it was her talent for music that set her apart from a young age. Growing up in a family where music was highly valued, Eswari’s early exposure to Carnatic music and other traditional forms of South Indian music played a key role in shaping her future career. Her mother was a singer, and Eswari inherited both the talent and passion for music from her.
At the age of 10, she began learning Carnatic music, a classical form that would serve as the foundation for her vocal training. Although her primary focus was Carnatic music, Eswari was soon drawn to playback singing, which offered her the opportunity to explore a wider variety of musical styles. Her early life was marked by rigorous practice and performances at local functions, where her talent was noticed by music directors in the South Indian film industry.
Career
- R. Eswari’s career as a playback singer began in the late 1950s, when she was discovered by music director T. R. Pappa. Her first major break came with the Tamil film “Pettredutha Pillai” (1958), where her powerful voice caught the attention of other music directors. Eswari quickly rose to prominence and became a regular choice for many of the leading composers of the time, including M. S. Viswanathan, K. V. Mahadevan, and Ilaiyaraaja.
Her versatility as a singer is evident in the wide range of songs she has delivered throughout her career. From classical Carnatic-based songs to fast-paced dance numbers and devotional hymns, Eswari has done it all. She is particularly known for her ability to sing high-energy songs with remarkable ease, as well as her powerful rendition of devotional songs, which have earned her a devout following.
Some of her most popular playback songs include:
“Vaarayo Vennilave” from “Missiamma”
“Kandan Karunai” from “Kandan Karunai”
“Paal Vikkira Padama” from “Annai Velankanni”
Eswari’s voice became synonymous with the music of the 1960s and 1970s, as she sang for top actresses like Jayalalithaa, Savitri, and Saroja Devi. She was known for bringing energy and vibrancy to her songs, especially in films where her voice became a signature sound for dance sequences and upbeat numbers.
Aside from film music, Eswari has made significant contributions to devotional music. Her renditions of songs in praise of Hindu deities such as Lord Murugan, Goddess Amman, and Lord Venkateswara have become iconic. Her devotional albums are widely listened to during religious festivals and continue to be popular even today.
Eswari also ventured into the Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam film industries, expanding her repertoire and fanbase. Her ability to sing in multiple languages and adapt to different musical styles made her one of the most versatile playback singers of her era.
Achievements and Awards
- R. Eswari has received numerous accolades for her contributions to Indian music. She has been honored with the prestigious Kalaimamani Award, given by the Tamil Nadu government in recognition of her contributions to the arts. She has also won several Tamil Nadu State Film Awards for her playback singing.
Her legacy is not just in the number of songs she has sung, but in the lasting impact she has had on the South Indian music industry. Eswari’s powerful voice and distinctive style have influenced generations of playback singers, and her work continues to be celebrated by music lovers across the world.
Personal Life
- R. Eswari has remained largely private about her personal life. Throughout her long career, she has focused on her music, allowing her voice to speak for itself. Despite her fame, she remains humble and dedicated to her craft, always striving to bring something new to her performances.
Conclusion
- R. Eswari is a legend in South Indian music, known for her remarkable voice and her ability to adapt to a variety of musical styles. From devotional hymns to energetic playback songs, Eswari has left an indelible mark on Indian music. Even in her 80s, her passion for music remains undiminished, and she continues to inspire new generations of singers. Her contributions to the world of music will be remembered for years to come, and her legacy as one of the great playback singers of India is firmly established.