Chennai | August 21
Veteran South Indian Actress Passes Away at 94
Chennai. The name ‘Sowcar Janaki’ is trending on Google Trends today following the death of the legendary South Indian actress at age 94. Janaki, born Sankaramanchi Janaki, passed away at 1:59 PM on Friday, August 21, at a private hospital in Chennai’s Alwarpet after a brief illness.
A Seven-Decade Legacy
Janaki’s career spanned over seven decades, during which she acted in more than 400 films across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada cinema. Starting as a lead actress in the 1950s, she later became renowned for her character and supporting roles, working alongside icons like MGR, Sivaji Ganesan, and Kamal Haasan. In 2022, the Government of India honoured her with the Padma Shri, one of the nation’s highest civilian awards, in recognition of her contributions to Indian cinema.
Hospitalisation and Final Days
According to reports, Janaki was admitted to Kauvery Hospital in Alwarpet on Thursday, August 20, suffering from heart-related complications. Her condition deteriorated overnight, and she was shifted to the intensive care unit. Despite intensive medical care, she passed away the following afternoon.
Nadigar Sangam Confirms, Tributes Pour In
Nadigar Sangam President and actor Nassar confirmed the news in a statement, announcing that her mortal remains would be kept for public tribute at Cenotaph Road, Teynampet, from 5 PM on Friday. Film fraternity members, politicians, and fans have begun paying their respects, with many calling her one of the most respected senior artistes of Indian cinema.
