Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, July 14: Legendary playback singer S Janaki, whose extraordinary career spanned thousands of songs across several Indian languages, also left an indelible mark on Tulu cinema, lending her voice to some of the industry's most memorable songs that continue to resonate with audiences decades later.
Paying tribute to the celebrated singer following her passing, Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy President Taranath Gatti Kapikad, in a social media post, recalled Janaki's immense contribution to the formative years of Tulu cinema and the enduring popularity of the songs she rendered.
Among her most celebrated Tulu songs is 'Ekkasaka Ekkasaka' from the classic film 'Koti Chennaya', penned by Prof B A Viveka Rai. Kapikad noted that the song remains one of the most iconic and enduring numbers in the history of Tulu cinema and continues to occupy a special place in the hearts of music lovers.
Janaki's association with Tulu cinema began when producer K N Tailor introduced her to the industry. She made her Tulu playback debut with 'Dareda Budedi', produced by Tailor in 1971, and continued her journey with 'Bisatti Babu' in 1972.
The year 1973 marked a significant chapter in her association with Tulu films, as she lent her melodious voice to three productions—'Udalda Tudar', 'Koti Chennaya' and 'Yaan Sanyasi Aape'—winning widespread appreciation from audiences across the coastal region.
Her contribution to Tulu cinema continued with songs in Dr Sanjeeva Dandakeri's 'Bayya Mallige' (1974) and 'Belli Dota' (1977). In 1978, she also sang for 'Nyayog Jindabad', produced by Kemtur Dodanna Shetty, besides another Tulu release, 'Kariyani Kattandi Kandane', further enriching the musical legacy of the regional film industry.
Kapikad said Janaki's mellifluous voice had entertained generations of Tulu-speaking audiences and remained an inseparable part of the region's cinematic and musical heritage. He paid rich tributes to the legendary singer, remembering her invaluable contribution to Tulu cinema and the lasting influence she had on the evolution of Tulu film music.
It may be recalled that Janaki had visited Mangaluru in June, when she offered prayers at the historic Mahathobara Shri Mangaladevi Temple. During her visit, devotees gathered to greet the legendary singer, with many taking selfies with her, making it one of her last memorable public appearances in the coastal city.