Neyyatinkara Vasudevan, well-known Carnatic musician, died at his residence here following illness. Vasudevan (68), a former artist of AIR, played a key role in popularising Swathi Thirunal Kreethans in and outside the state. A recipient of many national and state awards, Vasudevan was also awarded Padma Shri in 2004 for his valuable contribution to Carnatic music.

He received the Kendra Sahithya Academy Award in 1999 and also the prestigious Swathi Sangeetha Puraskaram of the Kerala Government in 2007.

Vasudevan, who was born into a poor family, scaled the ladders of success through hard work and dedication. His wife Ammukutty predeceased him, family sources said. He is survived by two sons, Babu Raj and Jayaraj.