Not a Kerala born, but forever its voice

In the vast world of music, only a few voices outlive the singers who gave them life. For generations of Keralites, S. Janaki, affectionately regarded as the State’s “adopted daughter”, was one such voice-gliding through rain-soaked evenings, temple festivals, family celebrations, and quiet moments of solitude with equal ease.

With her passing, Kerala mourns not merely a legendary playback singer from Andhra Pradesh, but an artiste whose songs dissolved linguistic boundaries and became woven into the emotional fabric of the State’s cultural life. Over a career spanning more than six decades and thousands of recordings, her Malayalam repertoire ranged from classical melodies and devotional hymns to romantic ballads and folk-inspired tunes, becoming the emotive soundtrack of everyday life in Kerala.

Poet-lyricist Rafeeq Ahamed said that though S. Janaki was not a Keralite by birth, she became the female voice that came to embody the very essence of Malayali identity. “The coming together of Bhaskaran Master, Baburaj, and Janaki was like a rare celestial alignment. All three stars have now set. Yet their radiance will continue to illuminate the firmament of Malayalam music forever. The beloved singer who gave voice, in the most profoundly Malayali cadence, to love, longing, sorrow, and joy is no more, and that leaves behind an immeasurable sense of grief,” he said.

Among Janaki’s several recordings, her most enduring Malayalam song is ‘Thumbi Vaa’ from Olangal. Composed by Ilaiyaraaja, the ethereal lullaby has remained a timeless anthem of childhood in Kerala, passed down through generations and firmly embedded in the State’s musical memory. Equally unforgettable is ‘Mizhiyoram Nananjozhukum’ from Manjil Virinja Pookkal. Set to music by Jerry Amaldev, the song is a masterclass in romance, with Janaki’s nuanced rendition lending extraordinary emotional depth and making it a benchmark for romantic playback singing.

‘Nadha Nee Varum’ from Chamaram stands out as a poignant expression of longing and anticipation. Musicians often cite it as a classic example of Janaki’s ability to convey profound emotion through her voice. In ‘Aadi Vaa Katte’ from Koodevide, Janaki effortlessly shifts to a breezy, joyful mood, showcasing her remarkable vocal range and modulation. The song remains celebrated for its infectious energy and flawless rendition.

For many Keralites, however, ‘Oru Vattam Koodiyen’ from Chillu is the ultimate song of nostalgia. With lyrics by O.N.V. Kurup, it evokes memories of rain-soaked village schools and carefree youth, earning an enduring place in Kerala’s cultural consciousness.