Rajinikanth, CM Vijay, Kamal Haasan and others pour tributes as S Janaki passes away

Legendary playback singer S Janaki passed away on Saturday at the age of 88, marking the end of an era in Indian music. Her death has prompted an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from across the Indian film industry, with icons such as Rajinikanth, Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, Kamal Haasan and actor Simran among those paying homage. Janaki’s career spanned over two decades and included more than 48,000 songs in multiple languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi and others. Her voice became synonymous with emotion and storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on audiences worldwide. The news of her passing spread quickly, triggering immediate expressions of grief and admiration from fellow musicians and actors. Rajinikanth, known for his deep connection with Janaki, took to social media to share his thoughts. He expressed his condolences in Tamil, stating, “May her soul, who delighted generations of people with her honey-sweet voice, attain peace.” His tribute highlighted their collaborative history, particularly in films such as Mannan, Thalapathi and Anbulla Rajinikanth. Songs like Adikuthu Kuliru, Sundari Kannal Oru Seithi and Then Poove Poove Vaa remain some of the most cherished tracks associated with both artists. Kamal Haasan, another close collaborator, offered a poetic reflection on Janaki’s impact. His tribute translated to, “The song will keep echoing forever. Mother, where will I go to find that love again?” Haasan recalled some of Janaki’s most memorable performances, including Unnai Naan and Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan from Gunaa, Sendhoora Poove from 16 Vayathinile and Ponmeni Uruguthey from Moondram Pirai. These songs encapsulated her ability to evoke deep emotions and connect with listeners across cultures. Chief Minister Joseph Vijay extended his condolences, acknowledging Janaki’s profound influence on the music scene. He noted her contributions to the film industry, highlighting her versatility in singing across languages and her numerous accolades, including multiple National Film Awards. Vijay described her as a figure whose voice and dedication would be remembered for generations. Actor Simran echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing how Janaki’s music had shaped the emotional landscape of many. He wrote, “Some voices become a part of our lives forever, and Janaki Amma’s was one of them.” His tribute underscored the lasting impact of her work, noting that while her absence leaves a void, her songs will endure in the hearts of millions. Fans and colleagues alike are reflecting on the legacy of a singer who brought warmth, depth and artistry to Indian cinema. As the mourning continues, so too does the celebration of a career that transcended language and borders, touching the lives of countless listeners around the world.