48,000 songs, one immortal voice; Tearful adieu to South India's nightingale

MYSURU: Playback singing legend Sistla Sreeramamurthy Janaki, who captured the hearts of Malayalees and South India with her melodic voice, bid adieu on Sunday.

The mortal remains of the singer, who enjoyed suzerainty in the playback singing domain for the last six decades, were cremated with full official honours. The ceremonies were held at Kaniyanahundi Farm House in Mysore yesterday at 5 pm. Apsara, the daughter of her late son Muralikrishna, was assigned to perform the last rites. Veteran singers K.S. Chitra and Sujatha paid their last respects and were teary-eyed throughout the ceremony.

Minister Roji M John laid a wreath on behalf of the state government. Karnataka Minister Yathindra Siddaramaiah, singer Mano, Kannada music director Hamsalekha and others also paid their last respects.

The body was kept at the Mysore Maharaja's College Grounds for public viewing from 8 am. Thousands flocked to have a last look at one of the most versatile singers India has ever produced. Prominent figures from the art, cultural, and political fields, as well as colleagues and fans from various states, paid their last respects.

Janaki Amma was rushed to the hospital after feeling dizzy at her home in Bogadi, Mysuru, on Saturday afternoon. She passed away in the evening. The singer was staying in Mysuru with her granddaughter Apsara after her son’s death in January.