Nagore Hanifa

Nagore Hanifa was an Indian singer and politician. His full name was Esmail Mohammed Hanif. He was also known as Isai Murasu. He was born in Nagore, Tamil Nadu. Both his father and elder brother were singers. During his childhood, Hanifa witnessed the struggle for money in the family. His father worked in railways and couldn't survive the family. That's when Nagore decided to put his feet in music and support his family. He was associated with Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party as a Tamil Muslim politician since the 1950s. He sang several songs and anthems for the DMK party. His songs boosted the fortune of the party through his melodious voice. He gave many devotional songs used in marriages and festivals.

He sang many political songs for DMK along with another noted playback singer K. Rani. Hanifa's voice has played a significant role in promoting the party among the masses. He was also very friendly with former C.M., Karunanidhi, and other political leaders such as Periyar, C.N. Annadurai, and many more. Hanifa's most famous secular song, "Iraivanidam Kaiyendungal," was written by Kiliyanur and was loved by people of all religions. This powerful song is sung by many singers on stage even today. Nagore Hanifa breathed his last at the age of 90. He was one of the most loved and significant singers in South India.