Kozhikode ,Sept 1
Veteran Mappilapattu artiste, music composer and tabla player Kozhikode Aboobacker, popularly known as Avukka, died at his residence at Ullisserikunnu in Areekad around midnight. He was 80.
Aboobacker had been undergoing treatment for nearly two months after suffering a stroke. His dedication to music continued until his health deteriorated. Family members said he had composed the tune for a new song just two days before becoming bedridden.
A towering presence in Kerala’s Mappilapattu tradition, Aboobacker enriched the genre with more than 3,000 compositions during a career spanning several decades. His songs, marked by memorable melodies and emotional depth, found a lasting place among Mappilapattu enthusiasts.
“Karayaanum Parayaanum Manam Thurannirikkaanum,” sung by K.J. Yesudas, and “Yatheeminathaani,” rendered by K.S. Chithra, are among his most popular compositions. Both songs became major hits and helped take his music to a wider audience.
Several prominent singers, including Sujatha Mohan, M.G. Sreekumar, Afsal and Shahabaz Aman, performed under his musical direction. A book documenting his life and artistic journey, titled Eenangalude Sultan (Sultan of Melodies), was being prepared for publication when he fell ill.
Aboobacker was also an accomplished tabla artiste and a favourite accompanist of renowned composers G. Devarajan and Bombay Ravi. His entry into professional music came through the troupe of legendary composer M.S. Baburaj, where he gained valuable experience that shaped his career.
He was a schoolmate of the late actor Mamukkoya, another prominent cultural figure from Kozhikode.
Aboobacker is survived by his wife, K.V. Subaida, and children Gulam Ali, Roshni, Femina and Sajina. His son Fayaz had predeceased him. His death leaves a significant void in Kerala’s Mappilapattu music tradition.
