Playback Singer S Janaki Dies at 88
Why in the news
S Janaki, the veteran playback singer known as the Nightingale of South India, died in Mysuru on 11 July 2026 at the age of 88.
Key facts
- Died: 11 July 2026, Mysuru, aged 88; born 23 April 1938 in Pallapatla, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.
- Career: debut in 1957 with the Tamil film Vidhiyin Vilayattu at age 19; over 48,000 songs in 20 Indian languages.
- Awards: 4 National Film Awards and 33 State Film Awards.
- Last rites on 12 July at Kaniyanahundi farm, Mysuru taluk, with full state honours.
| Honour | Detail |
|---|---|
| National Film Awards | 4 |
| State Film Awards | 33 |
| Tamil Nadu | Kalaimamani |
| Karnataka | Rajyotsava Prashasti |
About S Janaki
Her career spanned nearly seven decades. She often sang duets with S P Balasubrahmanyam and was affectionately called Janaki Amma. Besides film honours, she received an honorary doctorate from the University of Mysore.
Exam angle
- Remember her title: Nightingale of South India.
- Numbers: 48,000 songs, 20 languages, 4 National Awards.
- Obituary items often ask for age, place and field.