Legendary Playback Singer S. Janaki Passes Away at 88 in Mysuru

Mysuru: In a heartbreaking development for the Indian music industry, the legendary playback singer Sistla Janaki, fondly known as the ‘Nightingale of South India’, passed away at the age of 88 on Saturday (July 11, 2026). She breathed her last at Apollo Hospital in Mysuru, Karnataka, following age-related ailments and a sudden cardiac arrest. According to reliable sources, the veteran singer had been residing in the Bogadi area of Mysuru at her close associate’s residence following the demise of her son, Murali Krishna, earlier this year. On Saturday, her health deteriorated unexpectedly, after which her caretaker rushed her to the hospital. Despite the doctors’ best efforts, she did not respond to the treatment and passed away in the evening.

Key Highlights of Her Illustrious Journey

• A Multi-Lingual Phenomenon: In a monumental career spanning over six decades, S. Janaki recorded over 48,000 songs across more than 17 languages, including Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, Odia, and Konkani.
• The Soul of Kannada Cinema: Janaki Amma shared an unmatched, eternal bond with Karnataka. Her collaborations with legends like Dr. Rajkumar, P. B. Sreenivas, and S. P. Balasubrahmanyam defined the golden era of Kannada film music. Iconic tracks like “Deepavu Ninnade Gaaliyu Ninnade”, “Yuga Yugadi Kaledaru”, and “Gagana Nee Nanna” remain etched in the hearts of millions.
• Uncompromising Principles: Winner of four National Film Awards and 32 State Film Awards, she was also honored with a Honorary Doctorate by the University of Mysore. In 2013, showing her immense grit, she famously refused to accept the Padma Bhushan award, citing that the recognition came too late and pointing out the historical neglect of South Indian artists by the Central Government.

Tributes Pour In

As the news of her demise spread, a wave of grief swept across the country. Prominent personalities from the political arena, film fraternities across South India, and millions of fans took to social media to express their deep condolences.

“An era of pure melody has come to an end. Janaki Amma’s voice was divine, irreplaceable, and comforted generations. Her contribution to Indian cinema, especially Kannada music, is monumental,” read a tribute from a veteran industry insider.

With her passing, the curtain falls on one of the most glorious and influential chapters in the history of Indian playback singing. Her divine voice, however, will continue to resonate forever.