Saroja Devi Death: Padma Shri Saroja Devi Passes Away at 87 – Legendary South Indian Actress
Padma Shri Saroja Devi Death: Veteran actress B. Saroja Devi, a timeless icon of South Indian cinema, has passed away at the age of 87. She leaves behind a legacy of over 200 films across four languages.
Indian cinema has lost one of its brightest stars with the passing of B. Saroja Devi, who breathed her last at the age of 87. A legend across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema, Saroja Devi’s contributions to Indian film over six decades have left an unforgettable imprint on generations of audiences and filmmakers.
A Star Is Born
Born on January 7, 1938, in Bengaluru, Saroja Devi began her film journey at the age of 17 with the Kannada classic Mahakavi Kalidasa (1955). Her big break came in 1958 with Nadodi Mannan, opposite M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), which established her as a leading actress in Tamil cinema.
A Career Spanning Over 200 Films
B. Saroja Devi’s filmography boasts over 200 films, with lead roles in Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. She holds a unique record of starring in 161 consecutive lead roles between 1955 and 1984 — an achievement that remains unmatched.
She was particularly admired for her onscreen chemistry with legends like:
- M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) – starred in 26 blockbuster films together
- Sivaji Ganesan – delivered 22 consecutive hits
- N.T. Rama Rao (NTR) – in celebrated Telugu films like Seetarama Kalyanam and Jagadeka Veeruni Katha
- Dr. Rajkumar – in numerous Kannada classics
Her Bollywood success includes films like Paigham, Opera House, Sasural, and Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya.
Honours and Recognition
Over her long and impactful career, Saroja Devi received several prestigious accolades:
- Padma Shri (1969)
- Padma Bhushan (1992)
- Kalaimamani Award by the Tamil Nadu government
- Honorary Doctorate from Bangalore University
She also served the industry in leadership roles, such as chairing the 53rd National Film Awards jury and acting as vice-president of the Kannada Chalanchitra Sangha.
A Style Icon and Cultural Influencer
Apart from her powerful performances, Saroja Devi was also known for her elegance. Her fashion choices in the 1960s — including saris, jewellery, and signature hairstyles — inspired countless women across South India.
Life Beyond the Camera
Saroja Devi was the fourth daughter of Bhairappa, a police officer, and Rudramma, a homemaker. She lost her husband Sri Harsha in 1986 but continued to remain active in the arts, mentoring young talent and supporting film development initiatives.
A Legacy That Lives On
B. Saroja Devi’s influence on Indian cinema is immeasurable. Fondly known as “Abhinaya Saraswathi” and “Kannadathu Paingili” (Kannada’s Parrot), she redefined the role of women in Indian films and became the first female superstar of Kannada cinema.
Her passing marks the end of a glorious era, but her legacy — built on talent, grace, and sheer perseverance — will forever be remembered by fans, filmmakers, and future generations.
Rest in peace, B. Saroja Devi. Your light will continue to shine on the silver screen.
