Everyone’s Janaki: The singer’s enduring legacy of love and mentorship

Shedding stardom and its trappings does not come easily. Many struggle to hold on to it. But not legendary singer S. Janaki, who passed away recently in Mysuru. She recorded over 48,000 songs across 18 languages, yet remained the person she was — warm, gentle and unbelievably simple. A fortnight before her demise, she was in Mangaluru, visiting her niece. She also met fans, friends and children who were invited to her home to sing. Videos shot during the time show that Janaki retained her spirit almost until the end.