Veteran actor 'Sowcar' Janaki, who lit up screens for 7 decades, dies at 94
Sankaramanchi Janaki, popularly known as 'Sowcar' Janaki, a veteran actor who graced Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada cinema for more than seven decades, passed away at a private hospital in Chennai on Friday. She was 94.
The actor, whose career began with the Telugu film Shavukaru in 1950, went on to act in over 400 films. Directed by the legendary L.V. Prasad, Shavukaru gave her more than just a debut; the film's title also inspired her famous moniker, 'Sowcar', which she adopted to avoid confusion with another well-known actress, V.N. Janaki, the wife of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.G. Ramachandran.
Born into a Telugu-speaking family, Janaki developed a passion for acting early in life. She entered the film industry at a time when it was uncommon for women to pursue cinema as a profession, but her talent and determination helped her carve a niche. Over the years, she became known for her versatility, moving easily between intense drama and lighthearted comedy.
Her filmography includes several notable Tamil titles such as Panam Paduthum Padu (1954), Puthiya Paravai (1964), Neerkumizhi (1965), Edhir Neechal (1968), Uyarndha Manithan (1968), Iru Kodugal (1969), Kaviya Thalaivi (1970), Thillu Mullu (1981), and Vettri Vizhaa (1989). In Telugu, she impressed audiences with performances in Rojulu Marayi (1955), Kanyasulkam (1955), Panduranga Mahatyam (1957), Doctor Chakravarty (1964), Akka Chellelu (1970), and Badi Panthulu (1972). Her body of work also includes films in Malayalam and Kannada, making her a beloved figure across southern India.
Throughout her career, Janaki had the opportunity to work with some of the most celebrated names in Indian cinema, including actors such as Sivaji Ganesan, Gemini Ganesan, N.T. Rama Rao, and Akkineni Nageswara Rao. Directors and co-stars often praised her professionalism and warmth on set. She remained humble despite her fame, often attributing her success to the filmmakers who trusted her with diverse roles.
Janaki's last appearance in Telugu was in the 2023 film Anni Manchi Sakunamule, directed by B.V. Nandini Reddy. In Tamil, she was last seen in the 2020 comedy Biskoth, starring Santhanam. Even in her later years, she continued to take on roles that showcased her ability to adapt to changing times.
Her contributions were formally recognised in 2022 when the Government of India conferred upon her the Padma Shri, one of the country's highest civilian honours. The award acknowledged a career that spanned generations of cinema and influenced countless artistes.
Her death has come as a shock to her fans and the film fraternity. In an interview with The Hindu in 2021, Janaki had spoken about the uncertainty of life with striking composure. “Life is uncertain. You have to exit when the curtain is down. Be prepared and go peacefully; that’s my only wish,” she had said. Her words have now taken on a deeper meaning in the wake of her passing.
Janaki is survived by three children, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. As the news of her demise spread, tributes began pouring in from colleagues, politicians, and fans, all remembering an actor whose work transcended boundaries of language and region.
