The music community is mourning the death of a legendary musician S. Janaki who died on Saturday at the age of 88 in Mysuru. Popularly known as “Janaki Amma” and “Nightingale of South India” she is remembered for her remarkable legacy in South Indian music in several languages. He has been honored with four National Awards and 33 State Awards. But in 2013 he decided to reject the Padma Bhushan.
When S Janaki he refused the Padma Bhushan
More than 13 years ago, in 2013, the Government of India announced its name for the award before Republic Day that year. However, Janaki he said the realization came too late in his life. He made it clear that he was not angry with the government, but felt that his long-term contribution to Indian music deserved much respect.
The legendary singer said he deserved it Bharat Ratna
According to a report in The Hindu, after rejecting the award, S Janaki explained the reason behind the decision. He said, “I don’t find fault with anyone for being recognized so late. I have no problem with the government. I was happy that the government respected me.” He said, “I should have been awarded the highest award of Bharat Ratna if the government wanted to recognize my work. The veteran singer also felt that artistes from South India deserve more respect for their work and contribution.For the uninitiated, S Janaki spent nearly fifty years in the music industry and sang about 40,000 songs in 17 languages. He said: “After singing 40,000 songs in 17 languages and receiving four national and several state awards, I felt that what they have given me now, after being in the field for 55 years, is very little.
S Janaki wanted artists to be respected throughout their lives
S Janaki said it is important to respect artists while they are still alive. He also said, “P. Leela was awarded the Padma posthumously. Why can’t the Government recognize what people are doing while they are alive?”Celebrities including Chiranjeevi, Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth, Vijay, Boney Kapoor, and Trisha Krishnan shared their tributes online.