The Times of India on Thursday broke the news that singer S Janaki, would soon be retiring, with her final song being recorded for a Malayalam film. In an interview to Sanjith Siddhardhan, S Janaki said, "I am old now and I have sung in many languages. I would like to now rest, relax and leave my career behind."

She told TOI that she had decided to retire, and the Malayalam song was apt for that timing. She added that the lullaby called Ammapoovinu was close to her heart.

But the news of her retirement seems to have been misinterpreted and soon messages started spreading on social media and messaging platforms that she had been unwell and had died. A distressed SP Balasubrahmanyam took to Facebook and wrote, “Since this morning lots of rumours about Smt. S. Janaki, the Nightingale's health condition. All fake. I just talked to her. She is hale and healthy better than ever. Spread the good news. I dont know how some idiots do this mischief. Sadistic *^#@$÷=?. Long live the queen of Melody.”

The 78-year-old veteran singer has sung more than 48,000 songs in various languages and has won four National Awards and 32 State Film Awards.

The death hoax message was so viral that some Kannada channels too started countering the hoax with reports of her being alive and well.