Right from the 17th century, composers who have taken up music as their means of livelihood went through a hard time financially. They were paid only for commissioned works and public performances. And, when their music became famous, orchestras in other cities and countries would pay a small amount to copy the music.

Taking legal action against pirates is a headache for artists like me.

Many great composers have died in poverty. I have not faced hardships, like having to struggle for food, thanks to reasonable producers.

Ilaiyaraaja Quotes