Legendary singer S Janaki passes away

metro india news  I hyderabad

Legendary playback singer S Janaki passed away on Saturday, leaving the Indian film industry and music lovers in deep sorrow. The veteran singer, who had been suffering from age-related health issues, breathed her last while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Mysuru.

Fondly known as ‘Janakamma’, S Janaki was one of the most celebrated voices in South Indian cinema. With a career spanning over six decades, she recorded more than 50,000 songs in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam and several other languages.

Born on April 23, 1938, in Pallapatla village of Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, Janaki developed an interest in music at an early age. She received initial training from Nadaswaram exponent Paidiswami and began performing in music programmes as a child.

She entered Telugu cinema in 1957 with the film ‘MLA’ and went on to become one of the most sought-after playback singers. Her soulful renditions such as “Sirimalle Puvvaa” from Padaharella Vayasu, “Pagale Vennela” from Pooja Phalam, “Mounamelanoyi” from Sagara Sangamam, “Malli Malli Idi Rani Roju” from Rakshasudu and “Aakasam Enatido” remain timeless favourites among music lovers.

Known for her ability to bring emotions, innocence and depth into every song, Janaki created a special bond with listeners across generations. Her duets with S.P. Balasubrahmanyam became a golden chapter in Telugu film music.

She won four National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer and received several state-level honours during her illustrious career. Her contribution to Indian cinema will remain unforgettable.