Veteran music composer Raj from the Raj-Koti duo passes away

Hyderabad: Veteran music composer Raj from the Raj and Koti duo passed away at his residence in Hyderabad on May 21, Sunday. Raj's original name was Thotakura Somaraju but was popularly called Raj. The last film he composed music for was Lagna Patrika in 2002.

Raj and Koti were Indian film music composers, singer-songwriters, record producers, musicians and multi-instrumentalists duo in Telugu cinema. The duo who garnered particular acclaim for redefining contemporary Telugu film music were later popularly known Raj–Koti.

The duo has composed music for hundreds of films in the Telugu film industry and made a mark for themselves. He made his debut in the industry in 1982 and composed music for many blockbuster hits.

Some of the best works of the Raj-Koti duo involve Yamudiki Mogudu, Khaidi No. 786, Kodhama Simhan, Karthavyam, Muta Mesthri, Govinda Govinda, and Hello Brother. Some of Raj’s solo works are Sisindri, Ramudochadu, Mrugham, Premante Idhera, and Chinni Chinni Aasa. Raj is survived by his three daughters, Deepthi, Divya, and Swetha.

Not many know that Oscar award winner AR Rahman worked as a keyboard player for Raj-Koti. AR Rahman has worked as a keyboard programmer for 8 years. AR Rahman called Raj and Koti as his brothers. The untimely passing away of Raj has left the music fraternity in a deep shock.

Raj was known for conducting the music and giving notes to the orchestra. This was revealed by Koti himself. Koti always gave equal credit to Raj in the composition of all their songs.

Raj was not seen in public for quite sometime now and hasn't composed music for almost two decades now. His contribution to the Telugu film industry is huge and there will always be a void created by him and cannot be filled by anyone else.

More details about his death are awaited.