Sowcar Janaki, Legendary Actress of Telugu Cinema, Passes Away at 94

Sowcar Janaki, the iconic actress who began her journey with the 1950 Telugu film Shavukaru, passed away in Chennai on Friday at the age of 94. The veteran star, whose career spanned over seven decades and nearly 400 films, had been hospitalised recently due to age-related health complications and was receiving treatment in the ICU. Nadigar Sangam president Nassar confirmed her demise, stating that she breathed her last at 1:59 PM on August 21.

Janaki's breakthrough came with Shavukaru, directed by LV Prasad, where she starred opposite NT Rama Rao. The film not only marked her debut but also gave her the screen name by which she would become known across generations. Over the years, she became a familiar presence in Telugu and Tamil cinema, while also leaving her mark in Kannada and Malayalam films. Her diverse filmography includes memorable titles such as Kanyasulkam, Rojulu Marayi, Doctor Chakravarty, Samsaram Oka Chadarangam, Thillu Mullu, Iru Kodugal, and Hey Ram.

Beyond the silver screen, Sowcar Janaki was also active in theatre, performing in more than 300 stage shows. Her immense contribution to Indian cinema was recognised with several honours, including the Kalaimamani award and the Padma Shri, which she received in 2022. She was also a recipient of Nandi Awards for her performances in Telugu films.

Remarkably, Janaki continued to act well into her nineties, with her final appearance in the 2023 Telugu release Anni Manchi Sakunamule. Her mortal remains will be kept at Cenotaph Road in Teynampet from 5 PM today, allowing industry colleagues, friends, and admirers to pay their last respects.