"Your voice is immortal."
Veteran playback singer S Janaki, known as the Nightingale of South India, passed away at the age of 88.
She died in Mysore around 7:30 in the evening on July 11, 2026.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay and several prominent actors paid emotional tributes to her.
Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan and Chiranjeevi all expressed their deep sorrow at her passing. Vijay, on his X post, wrote:
“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.”
The Jana Nayagan actor praised her achievements and added significant context to his tribute:
“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.”
Rajinikanth’s X post read: “May her soul, who delighted generations of people with her honey-sweet voice, attain peace.”
His tribute highlighted the sweetness and emotional depth of her distinctive singing voice.
Kamal Haasan wrote poignantly about her lasting musical impact:
“The song will forever keep resounding. Where shall I seek that love, Mother?
“An inconsolable sorrow exists for many. My deepest condolences to them all.”
Chiranjeevi, in his X post, wrote emotionally about his personal connection with her work:
“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.”
The actor praised Janaki’s musical journey and concluded his tribute with respect.
“Janakamma garu… your voice is immortal. Om Shanti.”
Also known as Janaki Amma, she turned down the Padma Bhushan in 2013.
India’s third-highest civilian honour was offered to her by the government at that time.
However, she expressed that she should be considered for the Bharat Ratna award instead.
The Bharat Ratna is the nation’s highest civilian award available to any citizen.
Janaki stated that the recognition was long overdue given her extensive musical contributions.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan also sent condolences on Janaki’s death:
“The passing of S. Janaki marks the end of a remarkable era in Indian cinema and music.
“She may have come from another state, but her voice found a home in every Malayali heart.
“With every song, she gave expression to our deepest emotions and became part of our memories and our lives.”
He concluded by acknowledging the late singer’s “extraordinary legacy” in South Indian cinema.
The late singer was the recipient of four National Film Awards in her lifetime.
S Janaki also received 33 different State Film Awards throughout her celebrated career.
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