MUMBAI: Shankar Mahadevan, part of the Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy triumvirate, is a force to reckon with even on his own. A composer, singer and now also an actor (his recent turn in the Marathi film Katyar Kaljaat Ghusli won him plenty of accolades), Shankar continues to surprise us with each new trick.

Born on March 3 1967 to a Tamil family, the music composer turns 49 today. He started with the phenomenal music album, ‘Breathless’ in 1998, forged the SEL trilogy and won the National Award four times. Before the Marathi film, Shankar also tried his hands at acting with a Hindi serial, ‘Ek Se Badhkar Ek’ (1996).

He has been indisposed recently and had been hospitalised, but from what we hear, Shankar is back on his feet and ready to rock his 50th in style. Here’s Radioandmusic.com’s ode to the super hit tracks of Shankar Mahadevan over the years.

Breathless (1998)

Starting the list with his first hit, one may forget to breathe while listening to ‘Breathless’. This is indeed a musical miracle, written by Javed Akhtar and surprisingly directed by Farhan and Zoya Akhtar.

Tere Naina, Chandni Chowk To China (2009)

Partnering with Shreya Ghoshal for this song, Shankar formed a profound romantic number. The situation based song is a wonderful serve for the audience.

Maa, Taare Zameen Par (2007)

Blend of eternal emotions is how this song can be described. You cannot help but dissolve into tears after listening to Shankar’s rendition of Prasoon Joshi’s simple but effective lyrics.

Rind Posh Maal, Mission Kashmir (2002)

Although each and every song of the film was magnificent because of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, this is one of a kind. The soul of the song is provided by Shankar and we can also see the trio featuring in the video of the song.

Haan Yehi Rasta Hai Tera- Lakshya (2004)

With power packed music given by the music trio and the dynamic voice of Shankar Mahadevan, this one is sure to get your patriotic fervour up.