S. Janaki Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Songs & Achievements
Introduction
Sistla Janaki, popularly known as S. Janaki, is a legendary Indian playback singer and composer, admired for her versatility, emotional depth, and command over multiple languages. With a career spanning over six decades, she has sung more than 48,000 songs in languages including Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi. Often called the “Nightingale of South India”, she is one of the most influential and respected voices in Indian music history.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Sistla Janaki
- Date of Birth: 23 April 1938
- Birthplace: Repalle, Andhra Pradesh, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Playback Singer, Composer
- Zodiac Sign: Taurus
- Spouse: V. Ramaprasad (deceased)
- Children: Murali Krishna (son)
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 60 kg
- Hair Color: Black (now grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
S. Janaki was born in Repalle, Andhra Pradesh, into a Telugu family. She displayed musical talent from an early age and was trained in Carnatic music.
Her family encouraged her passion, and by her teens, she began performing on stage. This eventually led her to the film industry, where she became one of the most sought-after playback singers in South India.
Musical Journey & Career Highlights
Debut & Early Years
S. Janaki made her playback debut in 1957 with a Tamil film song. Her expressive voice and versatility quickly won the admiration of composers and audiences.
Rise to Stardom
She became the voice of heroines across South Indian cinema, working with leading composers like:
- M. S. Viswanathan
- Ilaiyaraaja
- K. V. Mahadevan
- Hamsalekha
- A. R. Rahman (later years)
Iconic Songs
Some of her evergreen songs include:
- “Singaara Velane Deva” (Konjum Salangai, Tamil)
- “Anbu Vanthathum” (Pudhiya Paravai, Tamil)
- “Aa Raathri” (Aa Raathri, Malayalam)
- “Emani Ne” (Pelli Pustakam, Telugu)
- “Ee Sundara Beladingala” (Ganeshana Maduve, Kannada)
Her ability to sing classical ragas, folk songs, lullabies, and modern melodies made her one of the most versatile singers in Indian cinema.
Multilingual Mastery
Janaki has sung in over 17 languages, making her one of the most prolific playback singers of all time.
Awards & Achievements
- National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer – 4 times.
- Filmfare Awards South – over 30 wins.
- State Government Awards from Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala.
- Padma Bhushan (2013) – which she declined, citing late recognition.
- Popularly known as the “Queen of Expressions” in Indian playback singing.
Personal Life
S. Janaki married V. Ramaprasad, and the couple had a son, Murali Krishna, who works in the film industry. After her husband’s passing, she continued her music career while keeping her personal life private.
Retirement
In 2016, S. Janaki officially announced her retirement from playback singing but continues to perform occasionally at special concerts and devotional programs.
Legacy & Influence
S. Janaki’s contribution to Indian music is monumental. Her songs remain timeless classics, and her influence extends to generations of singers who followed her. She is celebrated as the “Nightingale of the South”, with a career unmatched in depth, variety, and longevity.
FAQs
1. How many songs has S. Janaki sung?
She has sung over 48,000 songs in multiple languages.
2. What is S. Janaki’s most famous title?
She is often called the “Nightingale of South India.”
3. How many National Awards has she won?
She has won 4 National Film Awards for Best Female Playback Singer.
4. Did S. Janaki receive the Padma Bhushan?
She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2013, but she declined the honor.
5. When did S. Janaki retire?
She announced her retirement in 2016.
