Vijay Anand (composer)

Vijay Anand (died 6 February 2024) was an Indian composer who worked in South Indian films, mainly Tamil and Kannada.

Career
Vijay Anand developed an interest in music at the age of five due to the musical troupe Thomas and Party being his neighbours. After seeing his interest in music, they took him to their troupe and made him to be part of their concerts. He later started his own troupe in 1972. Vijay Anand was also a composer for Visu's stage plays. He was expected to debut in film with Visu's Naanayam Illatha Naanayam (1984); however Oorukku Upadesam, released the same year, became his film debut. Dwarakish who was impressed with his music in Oorukku Upadesam chose him to compose music for its Kannada remake Indina Ramayana. Vijay Anand went to score for more Tamil films including Naan Adimai Illai (1986), Kavalan Avan Kovalan (1987), Vetri Mel Vetri (1989) and Rasathi Varum Naal (1991). Naan Adimai Illai remains his best known Tamil film. He was, however, more prolific in Kannada cinema, where he composed for over 180 films. After a point, his success derailed as he received no further opportunities in the film industry. He also composed the music for two English-language albums.

Personal life
Vijay Anand was married to Amali, and the two have a daughter. He died in Chennai on 6 February 2024, at age 71, following health issues since December 2023.