A remarkable fact about S Janaki is that she never had any formal training in classical music. Her talent is natural, something many describe as 'God given'. Despite this, several music directors have marvelled at her ability to tackle complex ragas, as evident in songs such as 'Singaravelane Deva' from the film Konjum Salangai. The latest to gush over her talent is lyricist-composer-screenwriter-director Sreekumaran Thampi.
In a heartfelt tribute to the legendary singer, Sreekumaran Thampi told Mathrubhumi that her passing is a huge loss to film music. Sreekumaran said that he had a deep relationship with her that lasted 60 years. She sang the track 'Thamara Thoniyil Thalolamaadi' from his debut film Kaattumallika alongside KJ Yesudas. "At the time, I was 26 and Janaki Amma was 28," the filmmaker said.
"It is unbelievable S Janaki never received any formal training in classical music. She did not learn Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni, Varnas or Kirtanas," the director added. He also said that Janaki never noted down the lyrics and tunes as music directors sang to her, unlike other prominent singers such as P Susheela, P Leela, and Vani Jayaram. "Rather, she listened to the song, memorised it quickly and sang it beautifully," the filmmaker noted before adding that nobody else could do this without the formal training.
While growing up in Andhra Pradesh, a young S Janaki accompanied her elder sibling to the latter's lessons in music. She merely listened to what her sister was taught, thus absorbing the musical nuances. Recognising her natural talent, Nadaswaram artist Paidiswamy came forward to teach her the basics of music. Paidiswamy passed away a year later, which limited Janaki's time with her tutor. However, the fundamental lessons and a remarkable ear for music helped her become one of the best singers of all time in India.
