Legendary playback singer S. Janaki dies at 88

Legendary playback singer S. Janaki, revered across India as the "Nightingale of South India," died on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the age of 88. She passed away at Apollo Hospital in Mysuru, Karnataka, following age-related health complications. Her death was confirmed by her family, with her granddaughter, Apsara Vydyula, sharing the news in an emotional statement on social media.

Janaki was admitted to the hospital early on Saturday after developing breathing issues, fever, and drowsiness. According to hospital sources, she was suffering from low blood pressure, metabolic acidosis, and sepsis with septic shock. She experienced multiple cardiac arrests and could not be revived after a third episode. She died at approximately 6:30 p.m., with her family by her side.

Her granddaughter's statement conveyed the family's profound loss and requested privacy. "It is with profound sadness that I share the passing of my beloved grandmother and legendary singer, Smt. S. Janaki," Vydyula wrote. "She left us peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. While our hearts are heavy, we are also filled with gratitude for the extraordinary life she lived and the immeasurable joy she...