Born into a family where music has been the mainstay for the last seven generations, Jayanthi started playing the Veena when she was barely 3. Winning her way through several laurels and awards right from her childhood, Jayanthi was soon one of the youngest artistes in Veena to receive A-TOP grading from All India Radio (the highest grade offered by the only grading body in India). In recognition of her artistry, the Government of Tamilnadu has honoured her with the title of Kalaimamani.