S. Janaki (1938-2026) — A collection recalling the singer's pan-India career
Legendary playback singer S. Janaki has passed away at the age of 88 in Mysuru. Known as the 'nightingale' of South Indian cinema, she recorded 48,000 songs across 18 languages during her prolific career.
Why it matters
Her death marks the end of an era for South Indian music, as she was a foundational figure in the regional film industry.
S. Janaki, the legendary singer who dominated South Indian cinema for decades, passed away in Mysuru on Saturday (July 11, 2026), aged 88.
The singer, who is known for her versatility and a huge following across regions and generations, had sung 48,000 songs in 18 languages, predominantly the South Indian languages of Kannada, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam.
Janaki won the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer for “Senthoora Poove” from 16 Vayathinile, the debut directorial venture of Bharathiraja, who passed away last month.
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