Veteran Singer S. Janaki Passes Away At 88; Had Refused The Padma Bhushan

New Delhi: Extremely sad and shocking news has emerged from the music world. Veteran playback singer S. Janaki—renowned globally as the 'Nightingale of South India' and a beloved figure who ruled millions of hearts—has passed away at the age of 88. In the music fraternity, she was affectionately and respectfully known as 'Janaki Amma.' Her passing has sent a wave of grief through not only South Indian cinema but the entire Indian music industry.

A true queen of melody, Janaki Amma was known as much for her exceptional singing as for her forthright nature. She surprised everyone in 2013 by flatly refusing to accept the 'Padma Bhushan,' the country's third-highest civilian honor. She believed that, given her long-standing contribution to music, she should have received the nation's highest honor much earlier.

Why did Amma turn down the 'Padma Bhushan'?

In 2013, the Government of India announced the 'Padma Bhushan' award for S. Janaki, but she declined to accept it. Speaking candidly at the time, she stated that considering her immense and historic contribution to Indian music, she deserved the 'Bharat Ratna'—the country's highest civilian honor. She argued that she should have received this honor long ago and that accepting the Padma Bhushan at this stage of her life held no justification.

A journey filled with accolades?

Throughout her long and illustrious career, Janaki Amma achieved musical milestones that most only dream of. The magic of her voice and artistry is evident from the fact that she was honored with the prestigious National Film Award four times. Furthermore, in terms of regional honors, she amassed a record 33 state film awards.