Playback legend S. Janaki passed away in Mysuru on Saturday at the age of 88. The music world is mourning her death. Fondly called the “Nightingale of South India,” Janaki’s glorious legacy spanned over six decades. With her unforgettable voice, she sang thousands of songs that touched millions of hearts across generations. Her versatile skills ranging from melodious songs to folk songs earned her great respect as a playback singer in India. Many tributes have been coming to her from all over the country in appreciation of her huge contributions to Indian music.
PM Modi calls S. Janaki’s death an ‘Irreparable Loss’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the veteran singer through a heartfelt message on social media. His statement read: “The passing of the distinguished playback singer S. Janaki Amma is an irreparable loss to the world of music and culture. Her songs in various languages were popular across generations. They gave voice to every emotion with unparalleled grace as well as versatility. Her melodies will continue to enchant listeners in the years to come. My heartfelt condolences to her family, countless admirers, and the entire music fraternity in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.” The Prime Minister’s message reflected the great respect S. Janaki earned through her phenomenal musical journey and the indelible mark of her everlasting songs.
A voice that crossed languages and generations
S. Janaki was born on 23rd April 1938 in Guntur district of what is now Andhra Pradesh. From a young age, she showed extraordinary musical talent. She was professionally trained in music and had won a singing competition organized by the All India Radio when she was just 18 years old. She made her playback singing debut in Tamil through the song ‘Vidhiyin Vilayattu’ but soon expanded into Telugu and many other languages. Interestingly, she sang in six languages during her debut year and has recorded more than 40,000 songs in 17 different languages to date.
Unforgettable legacy of S Janaki that will continue to inspire
Some of S. Janaki’s evergreen songs are ‘Singara Velane Deva’ from the film ‘Konjum Salangai’ and the evergreen song ‘Annakili Unnai Theduthe’ from the film ‘Annakili.’ Some of the finest music composers who worked with her are M.S. Viswanathan, Ilaiyaraaja, A R Rahman, and Anirudh Ravichander. S. Janaki kept rejuvenating herself with each new generation she sang for. Not only did she render playback songs, but she also composed songs for a Telugu movie. Although she may not be with us anymore, her immortal voice and invaluable contribution to Indian music will stay with us forever through the songs we cannot do without.