‘Irreparable Loss to the World of Music’: PM Modi Mourns Legendary Singer S Janaki’s Demise at 88

Last Updated:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan mourned legendary playback singer S Janaki, who died at 88, praising her six-decade, multilingual career and lasting musical legacy across generations
PM Narendra Modi (left), S Janaki (right)
PM Narendra Modi (left), S Janaki (right) Credits: Pictures from ANI & X

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed deep grief over the demise of legendary playback singer S Janaki Amma and extended his condolences to her family and admirers, recalling her multi-linguistic and vast career in the field of music and entertainment.

The Prime Minister emphasised that the melodies created by the iconic singer will continue to enchant generations.

S Janaki, one of India's most celebrated playback singers, passed away on Saturday at the age of 88 after suffering age-related health complications.

Sign up for Open Magazine's ad-free experience
Enjoy uninterrupted access to premium content and insights.

Widely regarded as one of the finest voices in Indian cinema, she enjoyed an illustrious career spanning more than six decades, recording thousands of songs in multiple Indian languages.

In a post on X, PM Modi recalled the singer's remarkable versatility and said her songs beautifully conveyed every emotion with unmatched grace.

"The passing of the distinguished playback singer S Janaki Amma is an irreparable loss to the world of music and culture,” PM Modi said.

open magazine cover
Open Magazine Latest Edition is Out Now!

The Great Indian Male Makeover

03 Jul 2026 - Vol 05 | Issue 27

The craze for a perfect look is reshaping masculinity

Read Now

How did S Janaki Amma’s songs impact generations across languages?

“Her songs in various languages were popular across generations. They gave voice to every emotion with unparalleled grace as well as versatility. Her melodies will continue to enchant listeners in the years to come. My heartfelt condolences to her family, countless admirers and the entire music fraternity in this hour of grief. Om Shanti," he added.

Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan also expressed grief, describing her demise as an "irreparable loss to the world of music and to the nation's artistic heritage."

In a post on X, the Vice-President stated that Janaki's extraordinary voice enriched Indian music and touched countless hearts across generations.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary playback singer S. Janaki Amma, whose extraordinary voice enriched Indian music and touched countless hearts across generations," the Vice-President said.

Highlighting her illustrious career spanning over sixty years, the Vice-President praised her exceptional versatility and mastery across various genres.

"Blessed with a uniquely expressive voice and exceptional versatility, S Janaki Amma enthralled audiences for over six decades with thousands of songs in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi and several other languages. She displayed equal mastery over classical, devotional, and folk compositions, leaving an indelible mark on every genre she embraced," the post read.

The Vice-President further noted that her songs transcended linguistic and regional boundaries, bringing together millions of listeners through the universal language of music.

"S Janaki Amma's passing is an irreparable loss to the world of music and to the nation's artistic heritage. Through her immense contribution to Indian music, she left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire artists and music lovers alike," VP added.

Earlier on July 11, renowned playback singer S Janaki, fondly known as the "Nightingale of South India," passed away at Apollo Hospital in Mysuru after suffering age-related health complications. She was 88.

(With inputs from ANI)