Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Aug. 21, 2026, 1:59 PM IST: Veteran actress Sowcar Janaki passed away at the age of 94 after battling age-related health issues.

Veteran actress Sowcar Janaki, one of the most respected names in South Indian cinema, passed away in Chennai on Friday, August 21, 2026. She was 94. According to reports, the actress breathed her last at 1:59 PM after suffering from age-related health complications.

Her death was confirmed by Nadigar Sangam president Nassar, bringing an end to a remarkable career that extended across several decades and multiple South Indian film industries.

Janaki had been undergoing treatment at Kauvery Hospital in Alwarpet, Chennai, after falling ill. She was reportedly receiving intensive medical care before her condition deteriorated. News of her passing has left generations of film lovers mourning the loss of an actress who remained closely associated with the golden era of Telugu and Tamil cinema.

Sowcar Janaki had been admitted to Kauvery Hospital in Alwarpet following health-related complications linked to her age. She remained under medical supervision and was receiving treatment before passing away on Friday afternoon. Following confirmation of her death, Nassar issued a statement remembering Janaki as a legendary actress who made an important contribution to Indian cinema.

Her mortal remains were scheduled to be kept at Centoph Road in Teynampet from 5 PM, allowing members of the film fraternity, admirers and the public to pay their final respects. The news quickly drew attention across the Telugu and Tamil film industries, where Janaki was regarded as one of the enduring performers from an earlier generation of cinema.

Sowcar Janaki enjoyed a distinguished acting career spanning several decades. She appeared extensively in Telugu and Tamil cinema while also working in other South Indian languages, becoming a familiar face to movie audiences across generations.

Her versatility allowed her to move comfortably between emotional dramas, family entertainers, comedy and character-driven roles. Over the years, she worked alongside several leading actors, directors and filmmakers and became known for performances that combined natural expression with strong screen presence.

Janaki's contribution extended beyond individual films. Her long career reflected the evolution of South Indian cinema from the studio-driven era to a more modern filmmaking landscape. Even as new generations of actors emerged, she continued to be remembered as a major figure from an important period in regional cinema.

For many viewers, Sowcar Janaki represented an era in which strong performances and memorable family dramas dominated Telugu and Tamil screens. Her work earned her admiration not just among audiences but also within the film industry.

Her passing marks the loss of another veteran performer whose career formed an important part of South Indian cinema history. Tributes are expected from actors, filmmakers and fans who grew up watching her work. Though Sowcar Janaki is no longer with us, her extensive body of work ensures that her contribution to Telugu and Tamil cinema will continue to be remembered. Her performances, longevity and influence have left behind a lasting legacy for future generations of film lovers and artists.