Carnatic musician M Balamuralikrishna died at his Chennai residence on Tuesday. The legendary vocalist and composer was 86.

Balamuralikrishna began his career at the age of eight, singing at concerts in his home state of Andhra Pradesh. By 15, he was an accomplished musician, regularly performing in concerts and composing krithis.

He was made Chevalier of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government in 2005. The vocalist was also a Padma Vibhushan awardee, India’s second-highest civilian honour. He got the award in 1991 for his contribution towards Indian Art. His body of work has been a source of joy for lovers of Carnatic music for more than three-quarters of a century.

The social media was abuzz with condolence posts.