‘Sultan of Mappila Songs’ Kozhikode Aboobacker Passes Away at 80, Leaves Behind a Musical Legacy of 3,000 Melodies

The world of Malayalam music is in mourning following the passing of Kozhikode Aboobacker, the legendary composer who earned the title “Sultan of Mappila Songs.” He breathed his last at the age of 80, concluding a prolific career that defined a golden era of traditional Kerala music.

Aboobacker had been battling health complications for the past two months after suffering a stroke. True to his lifelong devotion to his craft, his passion for music never wavered, even as his health declined. Reports indicate that just two days before becoming bedridden, he was found on the veranda of his home, lost in the creative process of composing a new melody.

A Life Dedicated to Melody

With a career spanning several decades, Aboobacker composed over 3,000 songs, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of Kerala. His body of work included iconic tracks such as “Karayanum Parayanum Manamthurannirikkanum,” famously rendered by K.J. Yesudas, and “Yatheeminathan Nee,” performed by the celebrated K.S. Chithra.

The Birthday Story: Mentoring a Young Talent

Beyond his vast catalog of hits, Aboobacker was known for his kindness and ability to nurture talent. A poignant anecdote from 2022 highlights his role in shaping the early experiences of playback singer Vijay Yesudas.

As the story goes, the incident occurred on one of young Vijay Yesudas’s birthdays. While the household was bustling with preparations for guests and teachers, K.J. Yesudas was busy in his home studio recording a Mappila song. A section of the track required a child’s voice, and the legendary singer turned to Aboobacker, entrusting him with the task of coaching his son.

Young Vijay, initially preoccupied with his birthday festivities, was hesitant to step away. Aboobacker, displaying his characteristic warmth, reassured the boy, offering to assist with the party decorations so the young singer could focus. Guided by Aboobacker’s expert tutelage, Vijay nailed the recording in a single take.

A Legacy That Lives On

When K.J. Yesudas later heard the playback, he was visibly moved, remarking, “Can my son sing this beautifully?” That recording became an integral part of the hit song “Ummaye Chodichu Ponnumol Karayalle,” released under the Tharangini Music label.

Kozhikode Aboobacker’s passing marks the end of an era for Mappila music. However, his melodies, which have been cherished by generations of Malayalis, ensure that his influence will continue to resonate through the songs that defined his remarkable journey.