Following the announcement of the passing of legendary playback singer S. Janaki, memories of her visit to Kodagu have resurfaced among those who had the opportunity to host her during her stay in the district.
Janaki had visited Kodagu to offer prayers to Goddess Kaveri at Talakaveri, the birthplace of the River Kaveri.
Recalling her visit, A.K. Jeevan, a resident of Madikeri and organising committee member of the National Drug Dealers Association, said the renowned singer stayed for eight days at his residence in April 2015.
According to Jeevan, Janaki spent much of her time singing and interacting with the family in a warm and affectionate manner. He recalled her describing it as a blessing to worship Goddess Saraswati amidst the serene surroundings of Kodagu. Jeevan said Janaki had told him that although she had sung numerous songs celebrating the River Kaveri throughout her illustrious career, she had long wished to personally visit Talakaveri and offer prayers to the revered source of the sacred river.
He also remembered her as a person of remarkable simplicity and humility. Despite her immense fame, she lived modestly during her stay and never displayed any sense of celebrity status. “She was content with simple food-idlis for breakfast, rice gruel in the afternoon and fruits in the evening. She never demanded anything more,” Jeevan recalled.
He added that throughout her stay, music remained an integral part of her daily life. She also taught a few songs to his daughter Chahana during her visit.
Jeevan described hosting the legendary singer for a week as one of the greatest blessings of his life.
