Tamil poet and lyricist Kavignar Muthulingam was honoured by the South Indian Film Writers’ Association in Chennai on Saturday for his contribution to the film industry over five decades.

Pointing out that Mr. Muthulingam had written more than 1,500 songs, K. Bhagyaraj, actor, director and president of the association, said, “He is a very fine writer, and his asset is the massive crowd that has assembled for the event. It is an honour for us to felicitate him.”

Industrialist Nalli Kuppuswami Chetti said Mr. Muthulingam had won many awards and accolades over the years.

VIT founder-chancellor G. Viswanathan said, “He has written some fantastic songs. He is not only a fine poet and lyricist but also a great speaker and writer.”

A few of Mr. Muthulingam’s works were also released during the occasion.

Former Chennai Mayor Saidai Duraisamy and actor Sivakumar were among those who spoke at the event.