The death of legendary playback singer S. Janaki at the age of 88 resulted in an outpouring of grief from the entire Indian film industry.Along with the tributes, an inspiring real-life incident from the singer’s past has once again caught the public’s attention. The story recalls how a Malayali taxi driver played a vital role in saving his life during a medical emergency in Chennai.Recognized as one of India’s greatest playback singers, Janaki has enjoyed a career spanning over six decades. During that time, he recorded more than 48,000 songs in more than 20 languages. His unforgettable voice has been a part of Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Hindi and other film industries.
The singer has also faced many false death rumors over the years
Years ago, Janaki was repeatedly the subject of false reports claiming that she had died. Despite the emotional nature of the rumours, she is reported to have handled the situation with remarkable calm and grace.One of the earliest incidents happened in 2010, when a newspaper in Andhra Pradesh mistakenly carried the news of his death. Instead of reacting angrily, the singer reportedly laughed off the mistake. The publication later issued a correction.Years later, similar misinformation spread after Janaki announced her retirement from playback singing. Recently, after the death of his son earlier this year, his family once again had to deny the rumors that spread on social media regarding the singer.
A medical emergency in Chennai is almost fatal
As reported by On Manorama, S. Janaki also survived a real life-threatening medical emergency in the late 1990s. While he was in Chennai, he reportedly suffered a severe allergic reaction after being given a penicillin injection.The reaction quickly became critical. He lost consciousness and needed immediate medical attention. Every minute that passes becomes important as his condition rapidly deteriorates.Reportedly, a Malayali taxi driver recognized the seriousness of the emergency and acted without delay. He drove Janaki through the Chennai traffic at breakneck speed and reached the hospital within minutes to ensure that she received treatment on time.
S. Janaki remembers the driver
Years later, Janaki recalls the incident with deep appreciation. He credited the unnamed taxi driver with saving his life and acknowledged that his timely intervention made all the difference.Recalling the incident, the legendary singer described him as a “godlike man”. He added that without his help, he would never regain consciousness.
Tributes continued to pour in after his death
Meanwhile, condolences continued to arrive from every corner of the country after Janaki’s death. Actors, filmmakers, musicians and political leaders all remember the legendary singer.Among those who paid tribute were Kamal Haasan, Chiranjeevi, Vijay, and others.Leader of the Opposition in Kerala, VD Satheesan, also shared an emotional message on X. He wrote, “Deeply saddened by the death of the legendary singer, South India’s Nightingale, S. Janaki Amma. Her soulful voice and emotional depth shaped the golden age of Malayalam cinema. Rest in peace.”