Legendary playback singer S Janaki breathed her last on July 11, 2026, at the age of 93. Her final rites will be performed with full state honours in Mysuru on July 12, as directed by Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.
End of an Era in Indian Music
S Janaki, one of the most iconic voices in Indian cinema, sang over 48,000 songs across multiple languages including Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Hindi. Her career spanned more than six decades, from the 1950s to the early 2000s. According to family sources, she had been in declining health and passed away peacefully at her residence in Mysuru.
State Honours Announced
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar expressed deep condolences and announced that the singer would be accorded full state honours. The funeral will take place at the Mysuru crematorium on July 12, with a guard of honour from the state police. Shivakumar stated, "S Janaki was a cultural icon who enriched our lives with her melodious voice. The state bows in gratitude to her immense contribution."
Career Highlights and Legacy
Janaki received several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri in 2013 and the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer for the Telugu song "Mallepuvva" from the film Mouna Ragam (1986). She was also honoured with the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award and the Tamil Nadu State Film Award. Known for her versatility, she collaborated with legendary composers like Ilaiyaraaja, M. S. Viswanathan, and A. R. Rahman.
Her last public appearance was at a music event in Bengaluru in 2024, where she received a standing ovation. Fans and colleagues have been paying tribute on social media, calling her the "Nightingale of South India."
Condolences Pour In
Political leaders, film personalities, and fans across the country mourned her loss. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "S Janaki Ji's timeless melodies will continue to echo in our hearts. My deepest condolences to her family and admirers." Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin said, "Her voice defined an era of Tamil cinema. We have lost a precious gem."
The Karnataka government has declared a day of mourning on July 12, during which all state functions will be cancelled. Her body will be kept at her residence for public viewing before the cremation.
