Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin launched the 'Ilaiyaraaja' award for best music composers in the state at a programme celebrating the legendary music composer for completing 50 years in Tamil cinema. Stalin stated that Ilaiyaraaja "is beyond boundaries" and urged the Union government to confer 'Bharat Ratna' on him. Actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan were also present at the event.