Veteran Actress Sowcar Janaki Passes Away, Telugu Producers Pay Tributes
Janaki had been undergoing treatment at Kauvery Hospital in Alwarpet, Chennai, after falling ill. Nadigar Sangam president and actor Nassar confirmed her demise and described her as a legendary star
Veteran actress Sowcar Janaki, one of the most respected performers in South Indian cinema, passed away in Chennai on Friday at the age of 94. She breathed her last at 1:59 PM after being hospitalised with age-related health complications.
Janaki had been undergoing treatment at Kauvery Hospital in Alwarpet, Chennai, after falling ill. Nadigar Sangam president and actor Nassar confirmed her demise and described her as a legendary star. He also announced that her mortal remains would be kept at Centoph Road in Teynampet from 5 PM for fans and members of the film fraternity to pay their last respects.
Janaki leaves behind an illustrious career spanning several decades and multiple South Indian languages, particularly Telugu and Tamil. She made her Telugu film debut with Shavukaru and went on to establish herself as a versatile performer with films such as Manchi Manasulu. She also appeared in films including Devi and Babu Bangaram.
Over the course of her career, Janaki shared the screen with legendary Telugu stars N. T. Rama Rao (NTR) and Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR), leaving a lasting impression with her ability to portray a wide range of characters. Her performance in the landmark film Thayaramma Bangarayya remains another significant milestone in her career.
Remembering the veteran actress, director S. V. Krishna Reddy described her as an iconic performer and an “actor par excellence.” He recalled her versatility and said she could essay varied roles with remarkable ease. “We have lost a legend who acted in 400-odd films and portrayed a wide variety of roles,” he said, praising her immense talent.
Producer Raj Kandukuri, who had met Janaki some time ago, remembered her for her warmth, humility and dignified personality. He recalled that despite her stature in the industry, she remained down to earth, well educated and respectful towards everyone.
“Sowcar Janaki was an amazing personality both on and off screen. Despite her stature, she was extremely humble and warm. She treated everyone with great respect,” Kandukuri said.
He also recalled her contribution to Telugu cinema, particularly her work alongside NTR and ANR, and highlighted Thayaramma Bangarayya as one of her notable films.
With her passing, South Indian cinema has lost a veteran performer whose contribution transcended generations. Sowcar Janaki's memorable performances, versatility and immense body of work will continue to remain an integral part of the rich legacy of Indian cinema, Kandukuri said.