Legendary playback singer S. Janaki dies in Mysuru at 88
Veteran playback singer S. Janaki, who recorded over 48,000 songs and won four National Film Awards, died in Mysuru, Karnataka, on 11 July 2026 at the age of 88.
Summary
S. Janaki, the veteran playback singer known as the 'Nightingale of South India', died at a hospital in Mysuru, Karnataka, on 11 July 2026 at the age of 88. Over a career of more than six decades, Janaki recorded over 48,000 songs, mainly in Kannada, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam, and sang in about 20 languages. Janaki won four National Film Awards and 33 State Film Awards, and in 2013 declined the Padma Bhushan, saying the recognition had come too late. Janaki was cremated with full state honours at Kaniyanahundi near Mysuru on 12 July, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi called her passing an irreparable loss to music and culture.
Key facts
- Died
- 11 July 2026, Mysuru (Karnataka), aged 88
- Known as
- Nightingale of South India
- Songs
- Over 48,000, in about 20 languages
- Awards
- 4 National Film Awards; 33 State Film Awards
- Padma Bhushan
- Declined in 2013
- Last rites
- State honours, Kaniyanahundi near Mysuru, 12 July 2026
Practice MCQs 3 questions
Veteran playback singer S. Janaki, who died on 11 July 2026, passed away in which city?
Show answer
Correct answer: D — Mysuru
S. Janaki died at a hospital in Mysuru, Karnataka, on 11 July 2026, aged 88.
Which civilian honour did S. Janaki decline in 2013, saying it had come too late?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — Padma Bhushan
Janaki declined the Padma Bhushan announced on the eve of Republic Day 2013, saying the recognition came too late.
How many National Film Awards did S. Janaki win?
Show answer
Correct answer: A — Four
S. Janaki was a four-time National Film Award winner and also received 33 State Film Awards.