Yearĭuring the 1970s, he was the member of Tamil Nadu Legislative Council, which is defunct now. Iraivanidam Kaiyenthungal is very well known song from him among all the Tamils. During the 1950s the songs which he sang for Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam boosted the fortunes of the party. Nagore Hanifa penned many devotional songs independently which are widely used in Tamil Nadu, during festivals and marriages. He is considered one of the greatest and most influential singers of South India and beyond.
It is liked by not only Muslims but Hindus and Christians, even today sung by many singers on stages.
The lyrics are beyond any specific religion.
It was written by Kiliyanur, (near Mayiladuthurai) R. His signature song was "Iraivanidam Kaiyendungal". He was known as Isai Murasu for his deep stentorian voice. Nagore Esmail Mohammed Hanifa (25 December 1925 – 8 April 2015) was a Tamil Muslim lyricist, playback singer and politician.