One of the most respected names in South Indian cinema, Sowcar Janaki (94), passed away this afternoon. She had been suffering from age-related issues for some time and was admitted to a private hospital in Chennai.
In a statement, Nadigar Sangam President Nassar announced that the legendary actress’s mortal remains will be kept at Cenotaph Road in Teynampet from 5 PM, enabling fans and the film fraternity to pay their last respects.
In her memorable career spanning seven decades, Sowcar Janaki worked in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam cinema and featured in more than 400 films. She was conferred with the Padma Shri in 2022 for her contribution to Indian art and cinema.
Janaki made her debut in cinema with the 1950 Telugu film Shavukaru, directed by LV Prasad. It was a breakthrough for Janaki, also earning the actress her moniker, Sowcar. Some of her notable Telugu films include Rojulu Marayi (1955), Kanyasulkam (1955), Badi Panthulu (1972), Samsaram Oka Chadarangam (1987), and Devi (1999), among others.
Sowcar Janaki was last seen in the Telugu film Anni Manchi Sakunamule. The demise of the veteran actress has sent the industry into mourning. We extend our condolences to the family during this difficult time.