S. Janaki’s cremation was held yesterday evening with full State honours at the family estate in Kaniyanahundi village of H.D. Kote taluk. Her granddaughter Apsara Vydyula performed the ritual of lighting the funeral pyre.

Mysuru: The last rites of legendary playback singer S. Janaki, fondly known as ‘Gaana Kogile,’ were performed with full State honours yesterday evening at the estate of her close aide Naveen in Kaniyanahundi village of H.D. Kote taluk.

For decades, Janaki’s magical voice captivated millions of admirers across generations. Honouring her final wish, she was cremated in Mysuru, the land she had chosen for her last journey.

Thousands of mourners, including film actors, directors, producers, political leaders and devoted fans, gathered to pay their final respects. At the serene farmhouse, about 23 km from Mysuru city, her mortal remains were consigned to flames amid an atmosphere of profound grief.

Granddaughter lights pyre

At 5.36 pm, her granddaughter Apsara Vydyula, daughter of Janaki’s late son Murali Krishna, lit the funeral pyre as Vedic hymns filled the air. Daughter-in-law Uma, Apsara’s husband Ganesh and other family members bid her an emotional farewell.

The funeral rituals were conducted by a team of 10 priests led by Ramesh Sharma of Srirangapatna, following Telugu Brahmin traditions. As Janaki passed away during ‘Krishna Paksha,’ the prescribed religious rites were observed.

In keeping with her wishes, the last rites were performed by her granddaughter before sunset. The air echoed with chants of “Govinda… Govinda…” while grieving fans raised slogans of “Long live Janakamma!” and “Janakamma is immortal!,” reflecting the deep affection she inspired throughout her life.

As part of the State honours protocol, seven armed Police personnel, led by Reserve Police Inspector Deviprasad, fired three rounds in the air as a ceremonial salute. The Police Band played the National Anthem and rendered a solemn tribute.

As Janaki’s mortal remains were carried to the funeral pyre, admirers and family members took turns shouldering the bier in a final mark of respect.

Among those who attended were veteran actress Bharathi Vishnuvardhan, music director Hamsalekha, producer Rockline Venkatesh, singer Archana Udupa, Brahmanda Guruji, Father Paul of Kerala’s Mar Thoma Church and officials of the Kannada and Culture Department.

Granddaughter lights pyre

At 5.36 pm, her granddaughter Apsara Vydyula, daughter of Janaki’s late son Murali Krishna, lit the funeral pyre as Vedic hymns filled the air. Daughter-in-law Uma, Apsara’s husband Ganesh and other family members bid her an emotional farewell.

The funeral rituals were conducted by a team of 10 priests led by Ramesh Sharma of Srirangapatna, following Telugu Brahmin traditions. As Janaki passed away during ‘Krishna Paksha,’ the prescribed religious rites were observed.

In keeping with her wishes, the last rites were performed by her granddaughter before sunset. The air echoed with chants of “Govinda… Govinda…” while grieving fans raised slogans of “Long live Janakamma!” and “Janakamma is immortal!,” reflecting the deep affection she inspired throughout her life.

As part of the State honours protocol, seven armed Police personnel, led by Reserve Police Inspector Deviprasad, fired three rounds in the air as a ceremonial salute. The Police Band played the National Anthem and rendered a solemn tribute.

As Janaki’s mortal remains were carried to the funeral pyre, admirers and family members took turns shouldering the bier in a final mark of respect.

Among those who attended were veteran actress Bharathi Vishnuvardhan, music director Hamsalekha, producer Rockline Venkatesh, singer Archana Udupa, Brahmanda Guruji, Father Paul of Kerala’s Mar Thoma Church and officials of the Kannada and Culture Department.

Wristwatch and Krishna idol

Known for her simplicity, Janaki preferred plain attire, never wore gold jewellery and was rarely seen without her wristwatch. A devout follower of Lord Krishna, she held the  deity close to her heart throughout her life.

In keeping with her faith, a small idol of Lord Krishna was placed in her right hand before the cremation. Along with her cherished wristwatch, it symbolised the simplicity and devotion that defined her life beyond the stage.

Despite reaching the pinnacle of musical success, Janaki remained humble and soft-spoken, earning the admiration of colleagues and fans alike. She left behind not only an extraordinary musical legacy but also an example of grace and humility.