The Deva family tree represents one of the most melodious legacies in Tamil cinema. Known as the “Thenisai Thendral” (Breeze of Sweet Music), Deva carved a unique place in the South Indian film industry with his versatile compositions and catchy tunes that defined the 1990s and early 2000s.
His contribution to Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema made him a household name among music lovers.
This article explores the Deva family tree, tracing their journey, influence, and lasting impact on Indian film music. In this article, you will learn about:
- The origins of the Deva family and how music became an integral part of their identity.
- Deva’s early life and rise as one of Tamil cinema’s most successful music directors.
- The family’s ongoing legacy and how newer generations are carrying forward Deva’s melodic influence in South Indian cinema.
In this Article
Music Director Deva Family Tree
The Deva family tree stands as a testament to Tamil cinema’s rich musical heritage. Led by Deva, one of South India’s most celebrated music directors, the family’s contribution to the world of film music continues to inspire new generations of composers and artists. Their story is not just one of fame but also of passion, dedication, and a deep-rooted love for melody. Let’s explore the key members of the Deva family and the roles they have played in shaping this remarkable legacy.
Deva – The Melodious Maestro
Born as Devanesan Chokkalingam on November 20, 1950, in Tamil Nadu, Deva began his journey in music at a young age. Trained in classical music and influenced by devotional traditions, Deva’s fascination with rhythm and melody quickly found expression in the world of cinema.
Over the years, he became known for blending traditional Indian sounds with modern orchestration, creating unforgettable hits that defined the musical era of the 1990s and early 2000s.
Deva has composed music for more than 400 films across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada languages. His collaborations with top directors and actors such as Rajinikanth, Vijay, Ajith, and Kamal Haasan made his name synonymous with Tamil cinema's golden age. Some of his most iconic soundtracks include Annamalai, Baasha, Vallal, Aasai, and V.I.P.
What makes Deva’s journey unique is his ability to adapt to changing musical trends while maintaining his distinctive melodic identity. His work bridges generations of listeners, making him one of the few composers whose songs are both nostalgic and timeless.
Srikanth Deva – Carrying Forward the Melody
Following in his father’s footsteps, Srikanth Deva, Deva’s son, has carved a place for himself in the South Indian music industry.
Born into a family of musicians, Srikanth’s exposure to melody and rhythm began early. After assisting his father in several projects, he made his independent debut as a music director with the film Doubt (2002).
Srikanth Deva quickly gained recognition for his energetic and modern compositions that appealed to younger audiences.
His works in films like Kutho, Priyamudan, Machi, and Azhagiya Asura display a mix of catchy beats and emotional tunes. While his style differs from his father’s, it retains the same commitment to melody and audience connection that defines the Deva legacy.
Beyond films, Srikanth has also worked on devotional albums and independent projects, showcasing his versatility. His collaborations with new-generation directors and singers continue to evolve Tamil film music while keeping the family’s traditional roots intact.
Sabbir Deva – The Visual Storyteller
Another key figure in the family is Sabbir Deva, who ventured into film direction and choreography. While not as musically prominent as Deva or Srikanth, Sabbir brings a visual dimension to the family’s creative pursuits.
His understanding of rhythm and movement—undoubtedly influenced by his father’s musical background—translates beautifully into his direction and choreography work in Tamil cinema.
Sabbir’s artistic sensibility adds depth to the family’s creative range, proving that the Deva family’s influence extends beyond music into other facets of the film industry.
The Extended Deva Family – A Lineage of Musicians
Deva’s influence doesn’t stop with his immediate family. He comes from a lineage where music runs deep. Several of his cousins and relatives are also involved in the Tamil film industry as instrumentalists, singers, and composers.
Deva’s own brothers were part of local orchestras and cultural troupes, helping nurture his early passion for performance and composition.
The family has maintained a strong tradition of collaboration and mentorship, with Deva often encouraging young musicians to pursue their dreams. His home has long been a gathering place for artists, singers, and lyricists—a hub of creativity and inspiration.
A Legacy That Lives On
The Deva family's journey in the Indian film industry reflects the evolution of Tamil music itself—from classical and folk influences to electronic and contemporary sounds. What sets them apart is not just their talent but their ability to adapt while preserving their roots.
Through Deva’s timeless compositions, Srikanth’s modern sensibilities, and the family’s ongoing contributions to cinema. The Deva family tree continues to grow—deeply rooted in melody, yet ever-branching into new creative directions. Their story is one of passion, perseverance, and an unbreakable bond with music that will inspire generations to come.
How to Create a Family Tree for Music Director Deva
EdrawMind is an intelligent and user-friendly mind mapping and diagramming tool designed to help you visualize ideas, organize data, and create meaningful connections.
When it comes to building something like the Deva family tree, EdrawMind makes the process simple, creative, and efficient. With its drag-and-drop interface and customizable templates, you can easily map out Deva’s musical lineage. It shows family members, relationships, and contributions with clarity and style.
Whether you’re a researcher, student, or music enthusiast, EdrawMind allows you to present information visually, helping you understand how generations connect through shared creativity. Here are a few of the key features of EdrawMind.
Key Features of EdrawMind
- Pre-Designed Family Tree Templates: Start quickly with ready-made templates that can be customized to fit any family structure.
- Drag-and-Drop Editing: Effortlessly add or rearrange family members and connections with a simple click-and-drag function.
- Visual Customization: Personalize your tree with colors, images, icons, and different layout styles to make it visually appealing.
- Collaboration Tools: Work together with others in real-time—perfect for gathering family information or teamwork on a shared project.
- Cross-Platform Access: Create and edit your family tree from any device—desktop, tablet, or mobile.
- Cloud Storage Integration: Securely save and sync your projects on EdrawMind Cloud or third-party platforms like Google Drive and Dropbox.
- Export and Share Options: Export your family tree as images, PDFs, or presentations to share with family or publish online.
Step-by-Step Guide to Create a Family Tree
Follow the step-by-step guide to create a family tree with the help of EdrawMind.
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Step 01 Open a Blank Canvas
- Install the EdrawMind desktop version.
- Log in to your account or create a new account using your email or social media accounts.
- Click the Create button and then click Blank Mind Map.
Step 02 Change Layout to Tree Layout
- Change the preset mind map structure on the editing panel.
- Select the Main Idea box from the preset structure.
- Find the layout options available in the right-side menu.
- The Tree Map section will be available in the menu; pick one you like the most.
Step 03 Add Topics/Subtopics
You need to edit the topic and subtopics area. You can add as many topics as needed.
- Click the Start tab and find the Topics section.
- Click any topic box from the canvas, click More, and extend branches accordingly.
Step 04 Add Descriptions or Names for each Member
Once you are done arranging the topics, you need to add names for each family member. You can add any information needed for the family member.
- Double-click any Topic box and start typing.
- You can adjust the font details (colors, size, style) from the on-screen prompt.
Step 05 Add Pictures for each Member
Adding images for each family member helps grab the audience's attention and makes your family tree clearer. Here is how you can do it.
- Go to the Insert tab at the top.
- Click Pictures and add images for each family member.
- Adjust the box sizes to make them look in equal ratios.
Step 6 Export your Family Tree
Once all the editing is done, you are good to export your family tree in any format needed.
- Click the file button at the top left side of the screen.
- Find the export, share, and download options available for your design.
- Click export or print to get the hard copy right away.
Final Words
The Deva family tree stands as a symbol of Tamil cinema's enduring musical heritage. From Deva's soulful compositions that defined an era to Srikanth Deva's modern rhythms and Sabbir Deva's creative direction, each member has added a unique note to the family's artistic symphony. Their collective journey reflects the perfect harmony of tradition and innovation—where passion for music transcends generations.
The Deva family continues to inspire both artists and audiences alike, proving that true musical legacy isn’t just inherited—it’s nurtured, evolved, and celebrated through the timeless power of melody and creativity.
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