Veteran playback singer S. Janaki, known for her contributions to South Indian cinema, passed away at the age of 88 in Mysuru, Karnataka on July 11, 2026. She had been admitted to Apollo Hospital in the city earlier that day after developing health complications and did not respond to treatment, according to family sources.

Legacy and Awards

Janaki was a celebrated figure in Indian music, with a career spanning over six decades. She sang for almost every music director in South India, including S. Rajeswara Rao, K.V. Mahadevan, Ilayaraja, and A.R. Rehman. Over the years, she won four National Film Awards and a record 33 State Film Awards, as reported by The Economic Times. In 2013, she declined the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honor, stating the recognition had come too late. She had also expressed that her decades-long contribution deserved the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.

Personal Life and Last Days

Janaki began her playback singing career in 1957 and went on to become one of India’s most celebrated voices. She collaborated with composer Ilaiyaraaja and legendary playback singer S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, delivering numerous memorable songs across multiple Indian languages, according to The Economic Times. Janaki married V. Ramaprasad in 1959. Following his death, she settled in Hyderabad for her later years. She had been residing in Bogadi, Mysuru, for the past few years. She passed away at Apollo Hospital in Mysuru after battling age-related ailments, reports indicated.

Impact and Recognition

Janaki’s voice was known for its versatility, and she crossed boundaries of age and time in her career. Her songs are considered classics in South Indian cinema. The Hindu reported that she was popularly called “Janaki Amma” by her fans, a term of endearment meaning “mother.” Her death marks the end of an era in Indian playback singing, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to inspire generations. The Economic Times also noted that her death has been mourned by fans and fellow artists across the country.