Legendary singer S Janaki laid to rest with full state honours in Mysuru.
S Janaki laid to rest
Singer S Janaki was 88. (Express archive photo)Legendary singer S Janaki, fondly known as the “Nightingale of South India,” died in Mysuru on Saturday. She was 88.
Also Read – Singer S Janaki dies at 88; granddaughter shares emotional note
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Apollo BGS Hospitals, Mysuru, issued a statement on S Janaki’s death. The statement read, “Mrs. S. Janaki was admitted to Apollo BGS Hospitals, Mysuru, on 11 July 2026 at 12:49 PM. On admission, her condition was critical, and she was immediately evaluated and shifted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for further management. Despite intensive medical care and continuous monitoring by a multidisciplinary team, she suffered a cardiac arrest during the course of treatment. Advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was initiated immediately in accordance with standard medical protocols. Despite resuscitative efforts, she experienced multiple cardiac arrests and could not be revived. Mrs. S. Janaki was declared deceased at 7:30 PM on 11 July 2026.”
In a career spanning more than six decades, S Janaki recorded over 40,000 songs across multiple Indian languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi. She received four National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer and numerous state honours.
Also Read – The nightingale who sang in twenty languages: The life and legacy of S Janaki
The who’s who of the Indian film industry took to social media to pay tribute to S Janaki.
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Full state honours accorded to S Janaki
Full state honours accorded to veteran playback singer S Janaki during her last rites in Mysuru.
We do not have singers of S Janaki's calibre today,' says Susheela
In a recorded video message, Susheela said, There is no one who can match her. Unfortunately, we do not have singers of her calibre today. We were fortunate to have worked together. Tamil Nadu was blessed by your arrival. No one else could have rendered Singaravelane Deva the way she did. That song took her to the pinnacle of playback singing. May God grant her whatever she desired. I wish she is born again, but perhaps one lifetime is enough."
S Janaki to be accorded state honours
Singer S Janaki will be accorded state honours at her funeral, which will be held at her family's farm in Kaniyanahundi, HD Kote taluk, Mysuru.
S Janaki's mortal remains leave Maharaja Grounds
The mortal remains of singer S Janaki are being taken from Maharaja College Grounds to the funeral site.
'She was the embodiment of love,' says Suresh Gopi
Suresh Gopi told reporters, "What began as the voice of one generation, and then many generations, has today left music lovers across India in grief. Janaki Amma, who sang in so many languages, inspired countless people to fall in love with those languages through her music. Her passing has left an entire nation in tears. When her son passed away, I had spoken to her over the phone. I had expressed my wish to meet her. I now feel I missed that opportunity to visit her in Mysuru. Somehow, because of my schedule and other commitments, I could never make that visit. I would not say that the world of music has suffered a loss because her music will always remain with us. Even today, her voice, its sweetness, and the way she rendered songs continue to enrich Indian music. She was a deeply spiritual person with a divine presence. She was the embodiment of love. If that love continues to live on, then Janaki Amma will always remain with us in this world and beyond to receive and share that love."
'S Janaki garu was truly the Asha Bhosle of the South,' says MM Keeravani
Speaking to ETV Bharat, MM Keeravani said, "If P. Susheela garu is seen as the South's equivalent of Lata Mangeshkar, then S. Janaki garu was truly the Asha Bhosle of the South. Her contribution to all four South Indian languages is unmatched and and highly commendable. She was very kind hearted and was always the first to appreciate and encourage younger singers. Her departure is a great loss to the music industry."
'Janaki Amma was a very hard worker,' says Ilaiyaraaja
In a video posted on social media, Ilaiyaraaja said, "I was struck with sadness upon learning that the highly respected singer, Janaki Amma, had passed away. It was a shocking news for me. It is very regrettable that she had lived a life which had multiple unbearable instances. It is saddening that every great musician around the world has had troubled personal lives. But, Janaki Amma has proved that she was incomparable with every song that she rendered. She was a very hard worker. She used to match the efforts that I took to compose for each and every instrument, even outworking me at some points. She was a good composer and has written some Bhajan songs. The worlds of Indian cinema and music has faced a huge loss today. I pray to god to guide her soul to peace."
'Her songs were not merely melodies,' says Smriti Irani
Smriti Irani said via X, "Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary playback singer S. Janaki Amma Ji, whose extraordinary voice transcended generations and languages, leaving an enduring imprint on India's musical heritage. Her songs were not merely melodies but cherished memories that will continue to live on for years to come. My heartfelt condolences to her family, loved ones and countless admirers. Om Shanti."
'Janaki Amma continues to live among us through her music,' says Hiphop Tamizha
Hiphop Tamizha took to X to post, "The passing of Janaki Amma, whose divine voice captivated not only Tamil cinema but the entire Indian film industry, is an immense loss to the world of music. My deepest condolences to Janaki Amma's family and fans. During my school days, I would listen to her voice in the song Mudhalvane over and over again. Whenever her voice featured in an A.R. Rahman song, simply seeing her name on the tracklist would fill me with excitement. Janaki Amma, who gave us such beautiful musical memories, continues to live among us through her music."
'I can still hear her calling me Dase', says Yesudas
In an interview with Manorama, Yesudas said, "My dearest Janaki Amma is also bidding us farewell. Just as the melodies we sang together, sweet memories of that great singer come flooding back to my mind. I can still hear her calling me Dase. She would sing standing perfectly still in front of the microphone, with only her lips moving. Yet, her voice would resonate with a powerful surge of emotions and intricate musical flourishes. It was a masterclass in vocal artistry, demonstrating that a singer's true instrument is their voice and technique, not merely their physical presence,"
'I have lost a piece of my heart,' says Shweta Mohan
Shweta Mohan took to Instagram and wrote, "My Queen Janakiamma is no more…I have lost a piece of my heart and a portion of my musical soul. I loved her deeply.Every day of my musical journey has her in it. Her songs and her singing have been a 'textbook' I am still learning from.I rate her as the best singer this world has ever seen. I repeat — the Best Singer this world has ever seen...There is nothing she hasn’t done with her vocals - the power, the range, the emotion, the style, the breath control, the perfection, the versatility, the nativity of diction in every language - she is an unparalleled genius who was born to sing and to rule our hearts. Even personality‑wise, I have admired her deeply — the way she is a Mother with everyone around her. She has always been genuine and pure, loving and mature, calm and strong‑willed, approachable and down‑to‑earth, yet still casually be the absolute queen that she is. I have had the greatest fortune of working closely with her over the last two years on 'S. Janaki — The Composer', in which Amma made me sing four songs composed and written by herself. I learnt so much in the process and became very emotionally attached to Amma. I don’t think I can ever recover from this loss.It was very difficult to sing at the concert today after hearing the news that she is no more. But I will learn to turn this pain into a celebration of her life and her work.May her soul rest in eternal peace. Om Shanti, Janakiamma."
'Her voice will keep resounding forever,' says Selvaraghavan
Selvaraghavan posted om X, "Some people never truly die. That's the case with our #janaki Amma too. Even if the whole world perishes, her voice will keep resounding forever."
'Every song she sang carried an emotion that stayed with us long after the film ended,' says Venkatesh
Venkatesh Daggubati shared on X, "Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary Janaki amma. It was a privilege to have her sing for my films. Every song she sang carried an emotion that stayed with us long after the film ended. Though she is no longer with us, her music will continue to live in our hearts and inspire generations to come. My heartfelt condolences to her family, loved ones, and all who admired her."
'There is no one like her in world cinema,' says Vivek
Lyricist Vivek's note on X read, "There is no one like her in world cinema. The soul in her voice and versatility in performance..What a legend. The absolute goat of singers. You have given me peace, happiness and a reason to love music. My biggest regret is i never got to work with you. But always your number one fan. Love you ma."
Raghava Lawrence mourns demise of S Janaki
Raghava Lawrence tweeted, "RIP Janaki Amma, a legendary singer whose voice touched millions of hearts and will live on forever through her songs. Heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and admirers. May her soul rest in peace."
Fans pay their last respects to S Janaki
Fans pay their last respects to legendary playback singer S Janaki at the Maharaja’s College Grounds in Mysuru.
'Her songs and her kind persona simply became a part of our lives,' says Karthi
Karthi wrote on X, "A sense of deep loss hits us on hearing the passing of our legendary S. Janaki amma. Her contribution is a legacy that words can never fully honour. Her songs and her kind persona simply became a part of our lives. Though she is no longer with us, her voice will continue to touch hearts for generations to come. Heartfelt condolences to her family, loved ones and millions of admirers. Rest in peace, Janaki amma."
S Janaki's funeral at 5 pm today
S Janaki's funeral will be held at her family's farm in Kaniyanahundi, HD Kote taluk, Mysuru. The last rites are expected to begin at 5 pm today.
'Her voice was a timeless legacy,' says Rishab Shetty
Rishab Shetty said via X, "Deeply saddened by the passing of S.Janaki Amma. Her voice was a timeless legacy that touched millions of hearts across generations. Rest in peace, #sjanaki Amma#omshanti."
'Her extraordinary singing enthralled generations,' says President Droupadi Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu posted on X, "In the passing of the legendary playback singer S. Janaki Amma India has lost a musical icon. Her extraordinary singing enthralled generations. Her illustrious career spanned more than six decades, during which she recorded thousands of songs in nearly 20 Indian languages including Hindi, Odia, Tulu, Urdu, Punjabi and Bengali. Her timeless music will always remain valuable. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family and countless admirers."
'Your voice will live forever,' says Trisha
Trisha took to Instagram and wrote, "Carrying your name in one of my most special films will forever be one of the greatest honours of my life. But knowing you and being loved by you is something I’ll cherish forever. Thank you for your hugs, your kindness, your laughter and for always reminding me that the greatest artists are the humblest souls. Your voice will live forever. Rest peacefully Janaki Amma, I will miss you terribly."
'S Janaki was a rare combination of classical training and playback singing,' says Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar tweeted, "S. Janaki was a rare combination of classical training and playback singing. She entertained people across the South Indian states in 20 languages, while her renditions also kindled deep devotion in the hearts of millions. Popularly known as the “Nightingale of South India,” she was deeply spiritual and committed to her art."
'S Janaki gave voice to every emotion with unparalleled grace,' says PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, "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."
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar mourns demise of S Janaki
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar posted on X, "The passing of Smt. S. Janaki, the unparalleled playback singer of Indian cinema and the nightingale of Kannada films, has delivered a profound shock. The multilingual singer Janakamma, who had taken residence in the homes of millions through the magic of her voice, has left the realm of music bereft of its great melodic sweetness with her demise. Janakamma, the embodiment of simplicity who inspired and nurtured countless singers, her inimitable vocal charm will forever remain immortal in the cultural sphere of Karnataka. I pray that the divine grant eternal peace to her soul and bestow strength upon her family and countless admirers to bear this sorrow. Om Shanti."
'A voice that touched millions of hearts,' says Meena
Meena shared on X, "S Janaki Amma. A voice that touched millions of hearts and will never be forgotten...Om Shanti."
'A daughter of Telugu soil, she built an unparalleled musical legacy,' says Andhra Pradesh CM
A post by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu read, "Deeply saddened by the passing of veteran playback singer Janaki Amma Garu, the beloved Nightingale of South India. A daughter of Telugu soil, she built an unparalleled musical legacy spanning over six decades, touching generations with her timeless voice. Her immense contribution to Indian music will be cherished forever. Heartfelt condolences to her family, fans, and the music fraternity."
'Some voices are destined to live forever,' says D Imman
D. Imman tweeted, "Some voices are destined to live forever. S. Janaki Amma gifted the world countless melodies that became a part of our lives and memories. Her unparalleled artistry and humility will remain an inspiration to every musician and music lover. My sincere prayers and deepest condolences to her family and admirers across the globe. May her soul attain eternal peace."
'Your voice was a blessing to generations,' says Sam CS
Sam CS took to X and wrote, "Rest in peace, Janaki Amma. Your voice was a blessing to generations and will live on forever through your songs."
'A powerhouse of talent is silent today,' says Radikaa Sarathkumar
Radikaa Sarathkumar shared on X, "Rest in peace nightingale #sjanaki a powerhouse of talent is silent today."
'Will forever remember your blessings,' says Anirudh Ravichander
Anirudh Ravichander's tweet read, "Rest in peace Janaki Amma. Will forever remember your blessings. Om Shanti."
The nightingale who sang in 20 languages: The life and legacy of S Janaki
S Janaki's voice transcended languages and generations, leaving behind a legacy of over six decades and thousands of unforgettable songs. Read More Here.
'Some voices are not just heard, they become a part of our lives,' says Gautami
Gautami said via X, "Some voices are not just heard—they become a part of our lives.S. Janaki Amma’s voice accompanied me through many moments in my life. Remembering the numerous songs she sang for so many characters fills my heart with gratitude, memories and profound sadness today.She had the rare gift of conveying an entire lifetime of emotion through a single line. Her songs gave depth to our stories and remained in the hearts of audiences long after the screen faded.We have lost a legend, but her voice is eternal.My heartfelt prayers and condolences to her family and loved ones. Rest peacefully, Janaki Amma. Thank you for the music, the memories and the magic. Om Shanti."
S Janaki to be laid to rest on July 12
S Janaki's final rites will be held at a private farm in Mysuru at 5 pm on July 12.
Fans can pay last respects to S Janaki on July 12
The mortal remains of S Janaki will be kept at the Maharaja’s College Grounds in Mysuru for the public to pay their respects between 8 am and 4 pm on July 12.
Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan mourns demise of S Janaki
Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan’s post on X read, “Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary singer, South India's Nightingale, S. Janaki Amma. Her soulful voice and emotional depth shaped Malayalam cinema's golden era. Though she has left us, her thousands of timeless melodies will live on forever. Heartfelt condolences to her family and millions of fans. Rest in peace.”
‘Her timeless voice transcended languages and generations,’ says Sreenu Vaitla
Sreenu Vaitla shared on X, “Words fall short in expressing the grief of losing a legend like S. Janaki Garu. For over six decades, her timeless voice transcended languages and generations, leaving an unforgettable mark on Indian music and cinema. Though the voice has fallen silent, her songs will continue to inspire and comfort millions forever. Heartfelt condolences to her family, loved ones, and admirers across the world. Rest in peace, #sjanaki Garu.”
‘Please teach us how to go on in life life without you,’ says Khushbu
Khushbu wrote on X, “Janaki amma. Pls teach us how to go on in life life without you. Your laughter, your child like innocence, your voice, your motherly hugs, your love. Just can't get enough of it. You have given me an identification. Your expressions through your voice made me work harder but i couldn't match upto your magic behind the screen. You will be missed Amma. Rest in peace.”
‘She left an indelible mark on the music world,’ says Vijay
A statement by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and actor Vijay read, “The passing of Mrs. S. Janaki, the legendary playback singer who has won the hearts of multiple generations with her unique voice in the Indian film music world, brings immense sorrow. Having sung thousands of songs in various languages including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi, and more, she has left an indelible mark on the music world. Recipient of countless prestigious awards, including multiple National Film Awards, she will forever remain etched in the hearts of fans through her sweet voice, exceptional ability to convey emotions, and unwavering dedication to music. Her demise is an irreplaceable loss to the Indian music world. I convey my deepest condolences and sympathies to her grieving family, the film fraternity, music artists, and her fans across the globe. I pray for her soul to attain peace.”
‘Generations have grown up with your voice,’ says Simbu
Simbu wrote on X, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Janaki amma. Generations have grown up with your voice, and generations to come will continue to cherish it. Thank you for filling our lives with timeless songs and unforgettable emotions. Your voice will always remain close to our hearts. My heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and everyone who loved and admired her. Rest in peace, amma.”
‘Some voices become a part of our lives forever,’ says Simran
Simran said via X, “Some voices become a part of our lives forever, and Janaki Amma's was one of them. She gave life to emotions through her music and created memories that generations will cherish. Her absence leaves an irreplaceable void, but her songs will continue to live in our hearts forever. Deepest condolences loved ones. Rest in peace, Amma. Om Shanti.”
‘Her dedication to music and her achievements are timeless,’ says Sarathkumar
Sarathkumar’s note on X read, “The news of the passing of Mrs S Janaki, the Nightingale of South India, a world-renowned and unparalleled voice in Tamil film music and a Padma Vibhushan award-winning playback singer, has caused immense pain and profound grief. For generations, she won the hearts of millions with her melodious voice and will forever remain in people’s memories through countless unforgettable songs. Her dedication to music and her achievements are timeless. I recall the many occasions when she lent her youthful voice to countless films, including Sooriyane from Maayi, Vaa Vaa Poove Vaa from Rishi, Kottapaakkum from Nattamai, Muthunagaye from Samundi, and Aadi Varum Pallakku from I Love India. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to her bereaved family, relatives, members of the film fraternity and her music fans across the world. I pray to God for her soul to rest in peace.”
‘The voice that gave life to countless emotions,’ says Boney Kapoor
Boney Kapoor shared on X, “The voice that gave life to countless emotions has fallen silent, but its echo will resonate for generations. Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary playback singer S. Janaki Amma—the timeless Nightingale of South India. For over six decades, she touched millions of hearts with a voice that could express joy, love, devotion, longing, and sorrow with unmatched grace. Her songs transcended languages, generations, and borders, becoming an inseparable part of India's musical heritage. India has lost one of its greatest musical treasures. Heartfelt condolences to her family, loved ones, and the millions of admirers whose lives she enriched through her extraordinary artistry. Om Shanti. Rest in eternal peace, Janaki Amma.”
‘S Janaki was a goddess,’ says Chinmayi
Singer and dubbing artist Chinmayi tweeted, “She was a Goddess. I once had the chance to sing with her in a show in Australia perhaps 20-23 years ago. She sang a song live on stage where she sounded like a child, like a woman AND a Man. I was backstage and was wondering who the male singer was until I learned she was singing it all. Her work in Malayalam and Kannada and Tamil and Telugu. She is a singer I look up to. She will perhaps be Singara Velane Deva to Muruga up there.”
‘S Janaki was not just a singer,’ says Chiranjeevi
Chiranjeevi posted on X, “The news of Janakamma garu's passing has deeply shaken my heart. In my cinematic journey, she lent her unparalleled voice to countless unforgettable songs. It was her voice that breathed life into the many emotions we brought to life on screen. Behind so many songs that audiences fondly remember from my career lies Janakamma garu's sweet voice. Every time those songs play, those days... those memories... come alive once again before my eyes. Janakamma garu was not just a singer... she was an extraordinary artist who transformed emotions into melody. Every song she sang is a memory... a feeling... a lifelong bond. Today, we have lost a towering pinnacle in the world of music. But her song will forever resonate as inspiration for generations and as the background score to our lives. I extend my deepest condolences to the family members of Smt. S. Janaki garu, her loved ones, and the millions of music lovers who admired her. Janakamma garu... your voice is immortal. Om Shanti.”
Rajinikanth mourns demise of S Janaki
Rajinikanth took to X and wrote, “May her soul, who delighted generations of people with her honey-sweet voice, attain peace.”
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