Legendary playback singer S. Janaki, affectionately known as the “Nightingale of South India,” passed away peacefully today, Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the age of 88. She died at a private hospital in Mysuru, Karnataka, after being admitted earlier with a fever and age-related health complications.
Her granddaughter, Apsara Vydyula, shared a touching note confirming she passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family: “To the world, she was an iconic voice whose songs became part of countless memories. To us, she was a loving grandmother whose warmth, humility, kindness, and grace will remain with us forever.”
Janaki Amma went on to conquer Indian cinema with an unprecedented, awe-inspiring career spanning nearly seven decades.
48,000+ Songs across 17+ languages (including Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi).
A Decorated Legacy: Winner of 4 National Film Awards and 33 State Film Awards.
The Queen of Modulation: From sweet lullabies to high-pitched vocals, her range and ability to evoke pure emotion were entirely unmatched.
Her timeless collaborations with musical maestros like Ilaiyaraaja and legendary co-singers like S. P. Balasubrahmanyam formed the literal soundtrack to our lives. Though she retired from playback singing in 2016, her songs will echo through eternity.
Rest in peace, Janaki Amma. Thank you for the music, the memories, and the magic.
