The Indian music fraternity is mourning the passing of legendary singer S. Janaki. She was a rare artist who worked with music directors across three generations. From veteran composers of the golden era to contemporary masters, her voice adapted to changing times seamlessly. Tributes are pouring in from filmmakers, singers, and millions of music lovers who grew up listening to her melodies.
A personal memory revealed
Academy award winner and music maestro AR Rahman shared a personal memory with us. Janaki held a special place in his life, long before he entered the film industry. She actually sang at the wedding of Rahman’s parents. She performed alongside the legendary singer KJ Yesudas on that special day. “One of my most treasured memories is that she sang at my parents’ wedding, alongside the legendary Yesudas ji. I still cherish a beautiful photograph from that occasion, which holds immense sentimental value for my family,” he told Filmfare.
Janaki, Rahman are a melodious duo
Janaki collaborated with Rahman later in his career, delivering several memorable tracks. She crooned several memorable tracks during the 1990s and beyond. She brought her expressive voice to energetic numbers like Ottagathai Kattiko (with S.P. Balasubrahmanyam) from the 1993 film Gentleman. Other notable collaborations include songs in films such as Uyire (Dil Se), Jodi, and Sangamam for which she received a Tamil Nadu State Film Award. Rahman has praised her ability to make songs distinctly her own. “While we mourn her loss, we must also celebrate the incredible legacy she leaves behind one that will continue to live on through her unforgettable music,” Rahman added.
Sharing that Janaki ruled the world of playback singing for decades, Rahman added that her “unforgettable collaborations with Maestro Ilaiyaraaja created some of Indian cinema’s most cherished songs and continue to inspire generations of music lovers.”
Also Read: Remembering Iconic Singer S. Janaki
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