Following S Janaki's passing, Trisha Krishnan shared a heartfelt tribute, reigniting interest in the legendary singer's deleted cameo in the film '96'.
Kuwait City, Kuwait Jul 12, 2026 ALN: Dubai: When news broke of S Janaki's death on Saturday, Trisha Krishnan, whose character in the 2018 hit 96 was named Janaki after the singer, shared photographs from the time they met on set, alongside a message calling it one of the greatest honours of her career. The passing of S Janaki, a celebrated playback singer known for her melodious voice and significant contributions to Indian music, has resonated deeply within the film and music communities. Her death marks not just the loss of a remarkable artist but also a pivotal moment in the cultural landscape of India, where her influence spanned decades and touched countless lives.
Fans, meanwhile, went looking for something else entirely: a deleted scene from the film in which the real S Janaki appears on screen, in what is thought to be one of her only film appearances outside of playback singing. This deleted scene, once a mere footnote in the film's narrative, has gained renewed significance as it encapsulates the connection between the legendary singer and the character inspired by her life. The resurfacing of this footage illustrates the profound impact that S Janaki had on her fans and the film's audience, as they seek to honor her legacy through the art she inspired.
Trisha posted the pictures on Instagram, writing, "Carrying your name in one of my most special films will forever be one of the greatest honours of my life. But knowing you and being loved by you is something I'll cherish forever." She went on to thank the singer for "your hugs, your kindness, your laughter," adding that Janaki had a way of reminding her "that the greatest artists are the humblest souls." The photos show Trisha, still in her character's trademark yellow kurta and blue scarf, hugging Janaki on set. This heartfelt tribute not only highlights Trisha's admiration for Janaki but also serves as a reminder of the deep connections forged in the world of cinema, where artists often find inspiration and kinship with those they portray.
In 96, Trisha plays Janaki, known as Janu, a woman so devoted to the singer's music that she has a personal rule: she will only ever sing Janaki's songs. A scene shot for the film, and later cut from the final release, shows Janu and Vijay Sethupathi's character Ram stopping outside the real S Janaki's home in Chennai during a night out, hoping only for a photograph. Instead, the singer herself steps out and invites them in. This moment serves as a poignant intersection between the fictional and the real, allowing audiences to witness the warmth and humility of S Janaki, who was not only a revered artist but also a gracious individual.
Once inside, Ram tells her that Janu sings her songs beautifully but refuses to sing anything else, even his own favourite. Janaki is delighted to learn the young woman in front of her shares her name, and gently pushes back on the superstition, telling her a truly beautiful song deserves to be sung, whoever wrote it. The scene, small as it is, quietly explains a moment that does make the final cut: later in the film, Janu finally breaks her rule and sings a different song for Ram, a shift the deleted footage makes sense of in hindsight. This narrative arc not only highlights Janu's character development but also reflects the broader theme of artistic expression and the power of music to transcend personal boundaries.
Director C Prem Kumar has said the character was written with Janaki's voice and spirit in mind from the start, and that the film was, in its own way, intended as a tribute to her. The decision to include a scene featuring the real S Janaki was a testament to her influence on the film and its themes. This creative choice underscores the importance of honoring artistic legacies and the ways in which they can inspire new generations of creators and performers.
The scene was uploaded publicly not long after the film's original 2018 release, but has taken on new weight since Janaki's death, resurfacing widely alongside Trisha's tribute this week. 96 went on to become a commercial and critical hit, winning multiple Filmfare and SIIMA awards and later being remade in Kannada and Telugu, but it is this small, once-deleted moment, a legendary singer meeting the character named after her, that fans are returning to now. The emotional resonance of this scene has been amplified by the context of Janaki's passing, allowing viewers to reflect on her legacy while celebrating the impact she had on the film and its characters.
S Janaki's career spanned over six decades, during which she recorded thousands of songs in various Indian languages, making her one of the most prolific playback singers in the history of Indian cinema. Her unique vocal style and emotive singing won her numerous accolades, including several National Film Awards. Janaki's contributions to the industry are not only measured in awards but also in the hearts she touched with her music. Artists from various generations have cited her as a major influence, and her songs remain popular among audiences even today.
The impact of her death has been felt across the film industry, with many prominent figures expressing their sorrow and paying tribute to her legacy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with numerous stars from the film fraternity, has acknowledged her immense contributions to music and culture, calling her passing an "irreparable loss." Such statements reflect the deep respect and admiration that S Janaki garnered throughout her life, and the recognition of her role as an icon in Indian music.
As fans and fellow artists continue to celebrate S Janaki's life and work, it is evident that her influence will endure. The deleted scene from 96, along with Trisha's heartfelt tribute, serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music and the connections it fosters between artists and their audiences. The film not only pays homage to a legendary figure but also encapsulates the spirit of an era in Indian cinema that celebrated storytelling through song.
In conclusion, S Janaki's legacy is one of profound artistry and humility. Her music transcends generations, and her influence remains palpable in the contemporary landscape of Indian cinema. As the industry mourns her loss, it also celebrates the indelible mark she has left on the hearts of many, ensuring that her songs will continue to resonate for years to come.
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