Shweta Mohan Explains Absence From S Janaki’s Funeral Amid Online Criticism

Playback singer Shweta Mohan has responded to criticism over her absence from the funeral of legendary singer S Janaki, explaining that she was unable to attend because of a prior concert commitment in London. Shweta said she was emotionally affected by Janaki’s passing and requested people not to further hurt her by questioning her decision during a difficult time.

S Janaki, one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, died at the age of 88 on Saturday due to respiratory-related health issues. She was cremated with full state honours at her farmhouse in Kaniyanahundi on Sunday evening. Following her death, Shweta Mohan, who had often expressed deep admiration for Janaki’s music, faced criticism from some sections of social media users for not attending the final rites.

Addressing the comments, Shweta shared a video on Instagram showing an emotional moment from her London concert and explained that she was part of a musical tribute to Janaki shortly after her death. She said performing Janaki’s iconic songs on stage while dealing with the loss was extremely difficult, adding that she had not been able to personally visit Janaki one last time but had spoken to her through a video call and sought her blessings.

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Shweta said Janaki held a special place in her life and that the veteran singer’s contribution to music would always remain an important part of her own journey. Responding to those who questioned her absence, she said it was already a painful period emotionally and urged people to understand the circumstances rather than add to her distress.

After Janaki’s death, Shweta had shared an emotional tribute describing her as a musical inspiration and calling her songs a “textbook” that she continued to learn from. She praised Janaki’s vocal range, versatility, diction, emotional expression, and ability to sing across multiple languages, describing her as one of the greatest singers in the world.

S Janaki, popularly known as “Janaki Amma” and “Gana Kogile”, had a career spanning more than six decades and recorded over 48,000 songs in several Indian languages. She won four National Film Awards and numerous state honours during her career. Born in Andhra Pradesh in 1938, she later made Mysuru her home, and her last rites were performed there according to her wishes. Her granddaughter Apsara Vydyula performed the final rites, breaking from traditional practices that have often reserved such rituals for male family members.

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