Bengaluru: Veteran actress and one of the most celebrated icons of Indian cinema, B Saroja Devi, passed away at her residence here on Monday. She was 87 years old.
The legendary star had been battling age-related ailments and breathed her last at her residence surrounded by family.
Born on January 7, 1938, Saroja Devi enjoyed a glorious career that spanned over six decades, during which she acted in more than 160 films across five languages - Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Sinhalese.
Known affectionately as 'Abhinaya Saraswati' (goddess of acting), she won hearts with her expressive performances and unmatched versatility. She made her acting debut in the Kannada film Mahakavi Kalidasa, which paved the way for a series of memorable performances in classics like Kittur Chennamma, Anna Thamma, Bhakta Kanakadasa, Bale Bangara, Nagakannike, Bettada Hoovu, and the iconic Kasturi Nivasa.
Her stardom extended beyond Karnataka as she became a household name across southern India with superhits like Nadodi Mannan, Karpoora Karasi, Panduranga Mahatyam, and Thirumanam.
In recognition of her immense contributions to Indian cinema, she was conferred with the Padma Shri in 1969 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992. She also received an honorary doctorate from Bangalore University and the Kalaimamani Award from the Tamil Nadu government.
Tributes have been pouring in from all corners of the country, with actors, filmmakers, politicians, and fans expressing deep grief and recalling her lasting legacy.
Her final rites are expected to be held in Bengaluru.
Saroja Devi leaves behind a treasure trove of cinematic brilliance and an enduring influence that has inspired generations. Her passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema.
