Veteran Actor ‘Sowcar’ Janaki Passes Away in Chennai at 94

Veteran actor Sankaramanchi Janaki, widely known as ‘Sowcar’ Janaki, passed away at a private hospital in Chennai on Friday, August 21. She was 94 years old.

The acclaimed actor built a prolific career spanning seven decades and more than 400 feature films. She was celebrated across southern cinema, delivering countless performances in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam films.

Janaki began her cinematic journey in 1950 with the Telugu film Shavukaru, directed by veteran filmmaker LV Prasad. The title of her debut project gave her the enduring moniker ‘Sowcar’, which remained associated with her throughout her decades in the film industry.

Her extensive filmography included celebrated work across multiple languages, including a memorable performance in the Malayalam film Soorya Manasam. Beyond her acting career, she was known for her interests in food and interior design.

Following the news of her demise, politicians, cultural organisations including Gurajada Samskrutika Samakhya, and members of the film fraternity paid tribute to her lasting contributions to Indian cinema.