Unnikrishnan

Palakkad Unnikrishnan, born on July 9, 1966, in Palakkad, Kerala, is a distinguished Indian Carnatic vocalist and playback singer who has been one of Tamil cinema’s most enduring male voices. Trained in Carnatic music from a young age, he brings a classical foundation to his film singing that gives his voice a unique richness and depth.

Unnikrishnan began his playback singing career in the early 1990s and quickly became one of the leading male playback voices in Tamil cinema. His collaborations with music directors Ilaiyaraaja and A.R. Rahman produced some of the most iconic Tamil film songs of the 1990s and 2000s. Songs like “Uyirin Uyire” from “Kadhalan” (1994), “Chaiyya Chaiyya” (original Tamil version), and numerous romantic melodies remain all-time favourites.

He has sung in multiple languages including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, and has recorded thousands of songs over his career. His Carnatic music concerts have been performed at prestigious venues and festivals around the world.

Unnikrishnan has won the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer and multiple Filmfare Awards for his playback singing. He was also honoured with the Kalaimamani Award by the Government of Tamil Nadu. Known for his classically trained voice, emotional depth, and versatility across both film music and classical performance, P. Unnikrishnan continues to be a revered figure in Indian music.