Veteran playback singer S. Janaki, popularly known as the "Nightingale of South India", passed away at the age of 88, reported news agency PTI.

Popularly known as Janaki Amma, S. Janaki was one of India's most celebrated playback singers. In 2013, she declined the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honour, saying the recognition had come too late. She had also expressed that her decades-long contribution to Indian music deserved the Bharat Ratna, the country's highest civilian award.

During her illustrious career, Janaki won four National Film Awards and a record 33 State Film Awards across multiple Indian languages.

A musical journey spanning over six decades

Janaki began her playback singing career in 1957 and went on to become one of the defining voices of Indian cinema. Over the decades, she collaborated extensively with composer Ilaiyaraaja and legendary playback singer S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, delivering numerous chart-topping and timeless songs across languages.

She recorded songs in more than 20 Indian languages, earning widespread acclaim for her versatility and expressive singing. In recent years, however, she had been battling health issues.

Honours and recognition

Apart from the National and State Film Awards, Janaki received several prestigious honours during her career, including the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award. She was also conferred an honorary doctorate by the University of Mysore in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Indian music.

Personal life

Janaki married V. Ramaprasad in 1959. After his death, she settled in Hyderabad, where she spent her later years. Her passing marks the end of an era in Indian playback singing, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to inspire generations.