Tributes pour in for ‘Radio Akkayya’

City’s eminent personalities recalled and shared their memories of multi-faceted genius Turaga Janaki Rani

People, who have gathered at Telugu University auditorium, on Monday paid rich tributes to Turaga Janaki Rani, writer and broadcaster par excellence who passed away last week. Fondly known as ‘Radio Akkayya’, Janaki Rani is one of the few, who have left an indelible mark as a broadcaster. Host of eminent personalities paid rich tributes to the departed soul.

The programme, organised by Little Musicians Academy and noted singer Ramachary, was an informal affair, with people sharing their experiences and memories of Janaki Rani. Ramachary, was one among many whom she mentored while she was a producer at All India Radio.

Janaki Rani was a multi-faceted personality, who had encouraged generations of children and youngsters, provided them a platform to exhibit and enhance their talent. Balanandam and Bala Vinodam programmes of Akashvani were platforms that she presided over and has helped innumerable children to showcase their prowess.

Speakers recalled how Janaki Rani excelled in multiple fields, including music, dance, literature, drama, communications, apart from being a diligent social worker who contributed to policy design. She was also associated with international agencies, designing communication campaigns on key social issues, especially child rights and environment.

Janaki Rani is remembered as a warm personality, who mentored talent without bias or judgment and pioneered many broadcasting and literary firsts. Popular light music songs such as 'Padamule chaalu', 'Amma donga', 'Rama Charanam', and 'Ellalerugani vallamu', the Unicef song that Janaki Rani had conceptualised, have been performed by noted artistes.