Legendary Actress Sowcar Janaki Passes Away

Veteran actress Sowcar Janaki passed away at the age of 94 on August 21, 2026, following a brief hospitalisation in Chennai. Her extensive career spanned more than seven decades, during which she appeared in approximately 400 films across multiple South Indian languages.

Born Sankaramanchi Janaki in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, her journey into cinema began out of financial necessity. Initially working at All India Radio, she was noticed by filmmaker B.N. Reddy. Despite her family's opposition, financial difficulties later led her to accept a lead role in the 1950 film 'Shavukaru', launching a career she initially pursued as a means of livelihood.

Janaki balanced a demanding career with motherhood, often emphasizing her commitment to supporting her family as the primary driver for her acting choices. She married Sankaramanchi Srinivasa Rao in 1947 and had three children. Despite the eventual distance in her marriage, her family remained central to her life.

Her versatility saw her collaborate with iconic actors such as Sivaji Ganesan, Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan. Janaki continued to appear in films recently, with roles in 'Anni Manchi Sakunamule' (2023) and 'Biskoth' (2020). She was honored with the Padma Shri in 2022 for her contributions to Indian cinema.