Kozhikode Aboobacker, composer and noted veteran Mappilapattu, passed away

Eminent music composer, singer and master tablaist Kozhikode Aboobacker, fondly known as ‘Avukkakka’ passed away on Tuesday (September 1, 2026). He was 80.

​Aboobacker, widely admired throughout South India for his prolific contributions to Mappilapattu, a traditional style of Muslim folk song originating in the Malabar region of Keralam, was undergoing treatment following a stroke. His passion for music remained undiminished until his final days, when the veteran artist composed a new tune just two days before he was confined to his bed.

Melody

During his illustrious career spanning several decades, Aboobacker composed the music for more than 3,000 songs. His compositions became the basis of Mappila’s musical performances, cultural broadcasts and recorded albums. Virtually every leading playback singer in Malayalam cinema and light music, including KJ Yesudas, KS Chithra, G. Venugopal, Minmini and MG Sreekumar, has lent their voice to his tunes. His ability to blend traditional Malabar folk rhythms with complex melodic structures has earned him widespread critical acclaim.

His widely known compositions include ‘Karayanum Parayanum Manamthurannirikkanum’ sung by KJ Yesudas and ‘Yatheeminathani’ sung by KS Chithra. His other popular numbers included ‘La Ilaha Illallah’, ‘Pakalanthi Njan’ and ‘Padan Njan Gayakan Alla’.

Aboobacker fell ill while preparations were underway for the publication of Eenangalude Sulthan, a book by Hameed Koliyadukkam documenting his life and musical career. He had hoped to launch the book in the presence of KS Chithra and Chief Minister VD Satheesan, but the event was canceled after he was bedridden.

A gifted tab player

Aboobacker initially started his career through the music ensemble of legendary composer MS Baburaj. In addition to his work as a principal composer, he was an extremely gifted tabla player who served as a favorite rhythmic accompaniment to masters of Indian film music such as G. Devarajan and Bombay Ravi during major recording sessions.

Apart from his musical endeavours, he shared a lifelong friendship with the late actor Mamukkoya, with whom he attended school in Kozhikode.

Funeral services were to be held later on Tuesday.

Aboobacker is survived by his children, Ghulam Ali, Roshni, Femina and Sajina. He is preceded by the son of Fayas.

(Writer Aleesha V. Joseph is an intern at The Hindu)

Published – 01 Sep 2026 10:20 IST