File photo of violin maestro Kunnakudi R. Vaidyanathan performing at Tamil Isai Sangam in Chennai. He died on Monday night due to cardiac arrest. Photo: S. Thanthoni

Chennai (PTI): Violin maestro Kunnakudi R Vaidyanathan died in a hospital here on Monday night after prolonged illness here.

He was 75 and is survived by wife and two daughters.

Vaidyanathan was admitted to the hospital following cardiac problems and the end came around 8.45 pm, family sources said.

Vaidyanathan, known for introducing novelties in his violin concerts, had performed all over the world. His concerts with 'Thavil', a traditional south Indian drum instrument, was welcomed by music lovers in the country.

He also composed music for several films.

He had headed the 'Iyal Isai Nataka Mantram' (Sangeetha Nataka Academy) of Tamil Nadu for several years.

He was also the Secretary of Thygabrahma Sabha, Tiruvaiyaru in Thanjavur district, which organised the annual Aradhana Festival of the great Carnatic music composer Saint Thyagaraja.