Kozhikode Aboobacker, 80, passes away
Renowned composer and Mappilapattu veteran leaves behind legacy of over 3,000 songs, including hits like 'Karayanum parayanum' and 'Yatheeminathani'
Kozhikode Aboobacker, a celebrated composer and musician of Mappilapattu, a traditional Muslim folk song style, passed away on September 1, 2026, at the age of 80. He leaves behind a legacy of over 3,000 compositions, including popular songs like 'Karayanum parayanum' and 'Yatheeminathani'.
Aboobacker had been undergoing medical treatment following a stroke before his death. Despite his deteriorating health, his passion for music remained undiminished, with the veteran artiste having composed a new melody just two days before becoming bedridden.
Aboobacker was a gifted tablist and served as a rhythm accompanist for masters of Indian film music, including M.S. Baburaj and K.J. Yesudas. He worked with the legendary composer M.S. Baburaj and accompanied K.J. Yesudas during his performances in Kozhikode. Aboobacker also helped young Vijay Yesudas record a song for his father K.J. Yesudas's album 'Ummaye Chodichu Ponnumol Karayalle...'.
Aboobacker is survived by his children, Ghulam Ali, Roshni, Femina, and Sajina. He is predeceased by a son, Fayas. His contributions to Malayalam cinema and light music have earned him widespread critical acclaim, with virtually every leading playback singer in the industry having lent their voice to his melodies.
## Why it matters Aboobacker's passing marks the end of an era in Mappilapattu music, a genre that has given some quality songs with superb poetry and fine music. His legacy will continue to be felt, with his songs remaining staples of Mappila music stage performances, cultural broadcasts, and recorded albums. The music industry has lost a talented composer and musician, but his contributions will be remembered for years to come.
## Background Mappilapattu is a traditional Muslim folk song style native to the Malabar region of Kerala. The genre has a huge following in South India, with Aboobacker's compositions being particularly popular. His songs have been rendered by leading playback singers, including G. Venugopal, Minmini, and M.G. Sreekumar. Aboobacker's ability to blend traditional Malabar folk rhythms with intricate melodic structures earned him widespread critical acclaim.
