Legendary singer S Janaki left an indelible mark on Tulu Cinema

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Jul 13, 2026: Legendary playback singer S Janaki, whose illustrious career spanned thousands of songs across several Indian languages, also left an enduring legacy in Tulu cinema through a series of memorable songs that continue to be cherished by audiences.

Remembering her contribution following her passing on July 11, Karnataka Tulu Sahitya Academy president Taranath Gatti Kapikad, in a social media post, highlighted her pivotal role in shaping the musical identity of early Tulu films.

The iconic song ’Ekkasaka Ekkasaka’ from the classic film Koti Chennayya remains one of the most popular songs in the history of Tulu cinema. The song was written by B.A. Viveka Rai.

Janaki’s journey in Tulu cinema began after she was introduced to the industry by producer K.N. Tailor. She first lent her voice to the 1971 Tulu film Dareda Budedi, produced by Tailor.

Kapikad noted that she continued her association with Tulu cinema by singing for Bisatti Babu (1972). In 1973 alone, her melodious voice enriched three Tulu films — Udalda Tudar, Koti Chennayya and Yan Sanyasi Ape — captivating audiences across the region.

Her contributions extended further with songs in Sanjeeva Dandakeri’s Bayya Mallige (1974) and Belli Dota (1977). She also sang for Nyayog Jindabad, produced by Kemthur Doddanna Shetty in 1978, and another 1978 release, Kariyani Kattandi Kandane, he added.