Music composer Deva got a big recognition on Saturday, when Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa announced that he was appointed as the president of Tamil Nadu Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram.

In an official press release, the Chief Minister said that Deva will be the president of the Tamil Nadu Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram, while veteran actress Sachu (who is a longtime friend of Jayalalithaa) will be its member-secretary.

"Deva is very happy with this announcement of the Chief Minister. He has expressed his gratitude to Jayalalithaa. He has decided to do his duty in a neutral way, benefiting artists of various fields," sources close to him tell us.

The Mandram is a government-sponsored body which was set up to strive for the growth of arts, film industry and music. Among other things, it is also responsible for selecting winners of the coveted Kalaimamani and State awards.