Fr Michael Panachikkal, renowned Malayalam Christian Devotional Music Composer, Passes Away at 77
Kottayam: Fr Michael Panachikkal, a towering figure in Malayalam Christian devotional music, passed away while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Kottayam. He was 77. Funeral services will commence on Thursday afternoon at the Dhyana Kendram in Adichira.
Born on 6 September 1948 to Devasia and Elia, Fr Panachikkal entered the Vincentian Seminary in Angamaly in 1965 and was ordained to the priesthood on 19 December 1974, also in Angamaly.
He made his entry into devotional music with the song Nithyatha Theerkkunna Nimishangale, Swargam Thurakkunna Nimishangale and went on to compose nearly 700 devotional songs — among them the celebrated Thirunaama Keerthanam Paaduvaan Allengil Naavenikenthinu Naatha. His contributions to Christian devotional music spanned more than five decades.
Beyond music, Fr Panachikkal was a playwright, novelist, lyricist, and journalist. His notable works include Aathmaavil Daridrar Bhagyavanmar, Sathyam Ningale Swathantharaakkum, Sathyangalum Vasthuthakkalum (the catechism textbook of the Thamarassery Diocese), Veenteduppinte Vishwasa Vazhi, Kurishinte Vazhi (Via Sacra), and the song anthology Nithyatha Theerkkkunna Nimishangal.
He is survived by his siblings: Sister Gissella (Mumbai), Sister Francina (Kozhikode), Sister Matheus Mary CMC (Vettimattom), Ruby Lopes, Achamma Xavier, Sister Kunjamma (Enarakkuzhal), and Annie Saifu. He was preceded in death by his brothers Joseph and Sebastian.
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