Veteran Actress B Saroja Devi Passes Away at 87 in Bengaluru

Veteran actress B Saroja Devi, a celebrated icon of Indian cinema, died in Bengaluru on Monday at the age of 87. She had been battling age-related health complications.

Early Life and Recognition

Born on January 7, 1938, in Bengaluru, Saroja Devi received numerous accolades throughout her illustrious career. She was awarded the Padma Shri in 1967 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992.

Other honors include the Kalaimamani award, Dr Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award, and the NTR National Award in 2001 and 2009. In 2008, the Government of India also bestowed upon her a Lifetime Achievement Award as part of the 60th Independence Day celebrations.

A Remarkable Entry into Cinema

Saroja Devi began her cinematic journey at the age of 17 with Mahakavi Kalidasa in 1955. Over a career that spanned seven decades, she featured in more than 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi languages.

In Kannada cinema, she was popularly referred to as “Abhinaya Saraswathi” for her expressive performances.

Some of her most memorable Kannada roles were in Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, Mallammana Pavada, Kasturi Nivasa, Naagakannike, and Bettada Hoovu.

Her line “Nimage yaake kodabeku naavu kappa” from Kittur Chennamma became iconic and is often performed in school plays across Karnataka.

Stardom in Tamil Cinema

Her partnership with Tamil cinema legend M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) became one of the most iconic duos in Indian film history. They starred together in 26 back-to-back hit films from 1958 to 1966.

Titles like Nadodi Mannan, Thirudathe, Thaai Sollai Thattadhe, Enga Veetu Pillai, and Anbe Vaa remain evergreen classics. Following this success, Saroja Devi became one of the top stars in Tamil cinema and, for a time, was considered too expensive for Kannada filmmakers.

Acclaimed Roles in Telugu Cinema

Her work in Telugu films began with Panduranga Mahatyam in 1957. She went on to appear in notable films like Jagadeka Veeruni Katha, Seetharama Kalyana, Shakuntala, Pramilaanjaneyam, and Rahasyam opposite ANR, as well as Daagudu Moothalu with N.T. Rama Rao. Many of these films were rooted in mythology and folklore.

Contributions to Hindi Cinema

Saroja Devi also made a mark in Hindi films such as Paigham, Preet Na Jaane Reet, Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya, Opera House, and Sasural. Her ability to transcend linguistic boundaries made her a unique presence in Indian cinema.

Her final film appearance came in the 2019 Kannada film Natasaarvabhowma, where she played a supporting role, marking the end of a historic film journey.

Tributes from the Film Fraternity and Political Leaders

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah paid tribute on X, saying, “The news of the passing of veteran Kannada actress B Saroja Devi is deeply saddening.

Known as Abhinaya Saraswathi Goddess of Acting she acted in nearly 200 films across Kannada Tamil Telugu and Hindi cinema.

The very mention of Saroja Devi brings to mind her graceful performances in films like Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana and Anna Thangi… Her passing marks a tremendous loss for Indian cinema.”

Actor Khushbu Sundar wrote, “An era of golden cinema comes to an end. Saroja Devi amma was the greatest of all times. No other female actor in south has ever enjoyed the name and fame as her… Will miss her immensely. Rest in peace Amma. Om Shanti.”

Personal Life and Beyond the Screen

Born to Bhairappa, a police officer, and Rudramma, a homemaker, Saroja Devi was the fourth daughter in the family. She lost her husband, Sri Harsha, in 1986 but continued her work with dignity and grace, mentoring young artists and promoting Indian cinema.

She served as vice-president of the Kannada Chalanchitra Sangha and led the jury for the 53rd National Film Awards.

Legacy That Endures

Between 1955 and 1984, Saroja Devi starred as the lead in 161 consecutive films, a record in Indian cinema. She shared screen space with legends like Sivaji Ganesan, Gemini Ganesan, N.T. Rama Rao, and Dr. Rajkumar.

Her collaborations with MGR and Sivaji Ganesan led to multiple box-office successes, solidifying her place in the industry. Films like Seetarama Kalyanam, Jagadeka Veeruni Katha, Thangamalai Ragasiyam, and Bhaaga Pirivinai further showcased her versatility.

As India mourns her passing, B Saroja Devi’s legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and audiences alike.