Mysuru, July 12 -- Legendary playback singer S. Janaki had declined the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honour, when it was announced by the Central Government in 2013, saying the recognition had come too late in her illustrious career.

Reacting to the award at the time, Janaki had expressed disappointment that the Centre had failed to recognise her until she was 75 years old despite her remarkable contribution to Indian music. "I have been singing for over 55 years in several Indian languages. The love and appreciation of people are my greatest reward," she had said.

While clarifying that she held no personal grudge against the government, the celebrated singer had observed that artistes from South India often did not rec...