Legendary playback singer S. Janaki was laid to rest with full state honours at her family farmhouse in Kaniyanahundi on H.D. Kote Road in Mysuru on Sunday evening. The iconic singer passed away on July 12 at the age of 88 after suffering multiple cardiac arrests while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Mysuru. Her mortal remains were kept at Maharaja’s College Grounds before the last rites, where thousands of admirers, film fraternity members, musicians and political leaders gathered to pay their last respects. The funeral was held at her home city of Mysuru in her later years, as per her last wish.
Apsara ‘s emotional tribute to her grandmother
Speaking to the media during the last rites, S. Janaki‘s granddaughter, Apsara, paid a touching tribute to the legendary singer. “This is a great loss, not just to our family, but to the whole nation and the whole world,” she said, as reported by The Indian Express. Remembering Janaki’s unmatched talent, Apsara added, “She had the most expressive type of singing. Everybody who listens to her music knows that.” She also described her grandmother as truly unique, saying, “My grandmother was one of a kind. Anyone who knew her will tell you how special she was. She was a remarkable talent.” Her heartfelt words reflected the deep admiration and love the family continues to hold for the music legend.
A loving grandmother beyond the legendary voice
While the world celebrated S. Janaki as one of India’s greatest playback singers, Apsara said she would always remember her first as family. “I will remember her as my grandmother, kind, generous, and full of love and laughter,” she shared. Apsara also spoke about the life lessons she received from Janaki, saying they extended far beyond music and fame. “I’m honoured to have been her granddaughter. I learned so much from her, not just as a celebrity, but as my grandmother,” she said. She also fondly recalled Janaki’s deep affection for animals, describing it as one of the qualities she admired the most.
S Janaki – A voice that will never fade
In conclusion of her tribute, Apsara had some words for all the music enthusiasts of the country. “She will be terribly missed, but forever she lives on through her music. All we have left is that. We are forever together. There is no farewell,” she said. Throughout her career of more than six decades, S. Janaki sang more than 40,000 songs in many Indian languages and was honoured with four National Film Awards along with many other accolades. As tributes pour in from all corners of the nation, one thing becomes clear: although the legendary singer may not be here anymore, her legendary voice lives on.
