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94-Year-Old Veteran Actor Sowcar Janaki Dies After Hospitalisation in Chennai, Confirms Nassar
The veteran actor’s seven-decade career spanned more than 400 films in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada cinema, the report said.
On Friday, August 21, 2026, veteran actor Sowcar Janaki passed away at age 94 at Kauvery Hospital in Chennai after receiving intensive medical care.
Born Sankaramanchi Janaki, she built a career spanning seven decades and more than 400 films, debuting in the 1950 Telugu film Shavukaru, directed by LV Prasad.
The Government of India conferred the Padma Shri upon Janaki in 2022 for her contributions to art; she is survived by three children, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Nadigar Sangam President Nassar confirmed the news, noting association members had visited the actor earlier; her remains will be placed at Centoph Road, Teyampet, for public tributes.
In a 2021 interview with The Hindu, Janaki reflected on life, saying, "Life is uncertain. You have to exit when the curtain is down. Be prepared and go peacefully; that's my only wish.