The music world mourns the loss of a great singer S. Janaki who died on Saturday at the age of 88 in Mysuru. Known as “Janaki Amma” and the “Nightingale of South India” she is remembered for her unique legacy of South Indian songs in many languages. He was honored with four National Awards and 33 State awards. But in 2013 he decided not to accept the Padma Bhushan.
When: S Janaki rejected the Padma Bhushan
More than 13 years ago, in 2013, the Government of India announced his name for the award before Republic Day that year. However, Janaki: said recognition came too late in his life. He made it clear that he was not angry with the government but felt that his long contribution to Indian music deserved greater recognition.
According to the legendary singer he deserves it Bharat Ratna
As per a report in The Hindu, after being denied the award, S Janaki explained why she took the decision. He said, “I am not finding fault with anyone for this late recognition. I have no complaint against the government. I am happy that the government is honoring me.” He also said, “I should be given the highest civilian award of Bharat Ratna if the government wants to recognize my work. The late veteran singer also felt that artistes from South India deserve more recognition for their work and contribution.For those who don’t understand, S Janaki has spent nearly five decades in the music industry and has sung about 40,000 songs in 17 languages. He said, “After singing about 40,000 songs in 17 languages and getting four national and several state awards, I feel that what they have given me now, after 55 years in the field, is very little.
S Janaki wants to honor artists in their lives
S Janaki said it is important to honor artists while they are still alive. He added, “P. Leela was awarded Padma posthumously. Why can’t the government recognize the contribution of people when they are alive?”Prominent personalities including Chiranjeevi, Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth, Vijay, Boney Kapoor, and Trisha Krishnan shared their tributes online.