The body of the acclaimed music legend was taken in a procession from his Santhome residence to the Besant Nagar electric crematorium in a flower-decked truck.
The procession was attended by thousands of admirers and members of the film fraternity.
Viswanathan's son Gopi did the final rites and lit the funeral pyre. Several songs composed by MSV, including some devotional ones, were sung in the procession as a mark of honour to the departed soul.
Film personalities, political leaders and his fans paid him floral tributes since yesterday through today.
Actor Kamalhaasan who placed a wreath at the crematorium said, "He was an achiever who strengthened the Tamil film industry and top stars with his music."
Acclaimed lyricist Vairamuthu appealed that Bharat Ratna should be bestowed on MSV posthumously.
Viswanathan passed away here yesterday after about a month's treatment for old age illness.
Police had made elaborate security arrangements for the funeral procession.