Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival 2026: Ilaiyaraaja Honoured With Padmapani Award at 11th AIFF, ‘Music From the Heart Reaches the Heart’
Legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja was conferred the prestigious Padmapani Award at the 11th Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival (AIFF) in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Recognised for his contribution to over 1,500 films, the maestro delivered a moving speech on why soulful, instrument-led music transcends the mechanical digital era.
The 11th Ajanta Ellora International Film Festival (AIFF) 2026 opened on Wednesday with a profound reminder of the soul of cinema as legendary composer Ilaiyaraaja was conferred with the prestigious Padmapani Award. Amidst a gathering of global cinema enthusiasts at MGM University’s Rukmini Auditorium, the Padma Vibhushan awardee and Rajya Sabha MP was recognized for his monumental contributions to Indian film music. ‘INR 5 Crore and Apology’: Ilaiyaraaja Sues Ajith Kumar’s ‘Good Bad Ugly’ Over Unauthorised Use of His Songs.
Ilaiyaraaja Champions Live Music
In an age increasingly dominated by digital shortcuts, the "Isaignani" (Musical Sage) used his acceptance speech to champion the emotive power of live instrumentation. Ilaiyaraaja, who has scored over 1,500 films, emphasized that while technology brings speed, it often lacks depth. “Modern technology has made music faster and more accessible, but music created purely with machines reaches only the ears," Ilaiyaraaja said. "It is music born from deep emotion that truly reaches the heart.” Despite his stature, the 82-year-old maestro described himself as a "lifelong student," revealing he had finished composing the score for his 1,545th film just hours before traveling from Chennai to Maharashtra for the ceremony. He noted that while "keyboard composers" can now be found in every home, true resonance is rooted in practice and the "soul of the instrument."
Film Festival Opens With Tribute
The festival’s inauguration was conducted with solemnity following the sudden demise of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, who died in a plane crash earlier that day. In a show of respect, organisers opted for a simplified ceremony, omitting traditional floral honors. Dignitaries and attendees observed a moment of silence to pay tribute to the late leader before the proceedings commenced. The Padmapani Award, which includes a citation, a traditional Paithani shawl, and a cash prize of INR 2,00,000, was presented by MGM University Chancellor Ankushrao Kadam and Festival Chairman Nandkishor Kagliwal.
AIFF 2026 Honors Ilaiyaraaja and Bhagyashree Borse
The evening also celebrated rising talent, honoring actress Bhagyashree Borse, a Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar native who has seen rapid success in the South Indian film industry. Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty offered a moving tribute to Ilaiyaraaja, describing him as a "rare and sensitive soul" whose work has shaped the auditory landscape of Indian cinema for over five decades. The 11th edition of AIFF, running through February 1, 2026, will showcase 70 films from across the globe. Director Sunil Sukthankar noted that the festival continues to bridge the gap between local culture and global movements under the motto ‘He Vishvachi Maze Ghar’ (The World is My Home). Ilaiyaraaja Nominated As Rajya Sabha MP by President of India; PM Narendra Modi Congratulates Music Maestro (View Tweet)
Ilaiyaraaja Sings 'Janani Janani'
In a rare moment of performance, the Maestro moved the audience by singing a few lines of his iconic composition "Janani Janani," a gesture sparked by a request from the local Tamil community. The festival serves as a hub for critical dialogue and artistic exchange, featuring an international FIPRESCI jury and competitions designed to promote excellence in both Indian and world cinema.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 30, 2026 05:38 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).