Voice that broke the old: Remembering bold, versatile legacy of K Jamuna Rani

K Jamuna Rani, also known as Jikki, died in Bengaluru on July 30 at age 88.

Her career spanned over 6,000 songs across five languages, debuting at age 7 in the 1946 Telugu film 'Tyagayya'.

Rani was known for her robust, slightly throaty voice with projecting power, which offered an alternative to the high-pitched heroine voice of the 1950s-60s.

Her breakthrough hit was 'Aasaiyum En Nesamum' from 'Gulebakavali', showcasing her ability with complex rhythms.

She matched high-octane theatricality in 'Yaaradi Nee Mohini' with T M Soundararajan in 'Uthama Puthiran'.