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The Hindu
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
B. Saroja Devi laid to rest with full state honours
Legendary film actor B Saroja Devi was laid to rest in her native village of Dashavara in Channapatna Taluk in Ramanagara district with full state honours on Tuesday (July 15, 2025). The 87-year-old passed away due to age-related ailments at her home in Malleswaram in Bengaluru on Monday (July 14, 2025). Her funeral was held in accordance with Vokkaliga traditions, with burial rites performed. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, along with prominent personalities from the Karnataka film industry, including Jayamala, Sundar Raju, Rockline Venkatesh, Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce President (KFCC) M Narasimhalu, and film producer Basant Kumar Patil, paid their final respects. Speaking to reporters after paying homage at her residence in Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah described her demise as 'a major loss to the entire film industry'. 'B Saroja Devi entered the film industry at a very young age and served it for nearly 70 years. That's a tremendous achievement. I have met her so many times. She would talk to everyone with affection,' he said. The Chief Minister added that he enjoyed her performances in Kannada films such as Mallammana Pavaada (1969), Kittur Chennamma (1961), Nyayave Devaru (1971) and Bhagyavantharu (1977). 'She formed a great on-screen chemistry with Dr Rajkumar,' Siddaramaiah added. ALSO READ:How B. Saroja Devi became Kannada cinema's female superstar On Monday, the eyes of Saroja Devi were donated to Narayana Nethralaya as per her wish, hospital officials told reporters. An official from Narayana Nethralaya said that Saroja Devi registered for eye donation five years ago. 'Only corneas have been taken, both her corneas are in good condition,' he added.
Time of India
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
B. Saroja Devi's demise: CM Siddaramaiah pays tribute; announces state honours for final rites
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) Veteran Indian actress B. Saroja Devi , a beloved icon of Indian cinema , passed away at the age of 87 at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru on July 14. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that her final rites would be conducted with full state honours. — siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) 'I had met her several times in the past' In a heartfelt statement shared on Twitter, the Chief Minister recalled his many encounters with the actress over the years, describing her as a warm and affectionate individual with a remarkable presence. 'I had met her several times in the past. Wherever we met, she always spoke with great affection and warmth. She was an actress with a wonderful personality,' he said, adding that discussions are underway to name 11th Cross in Malleswaram after her. Legendary South Indian actor B. Saroja Devi dies at 87 Siddaramaiah's Tweet completely read, "I paid my final respects to the mortal remains of the legendary multilingual actress B. Saroja Devi, who passed away in Bengaluru yesterday. B. Saroja Devi was a towering figure in Indian cinema. An exceptional actress, she shone as a star across five languages — Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and more — earning admiration for her versatility and grace. 'I have watched many of her iconic films like 'Mallammana Pavada', 'Kittur Chennamma'' He further wrote, "I had the opportunity to meet Saroja Devi multiple times. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Dementia Has Been Linked To a Common Habit. Do You Do It? Memory Health Learn More Undo She always spoke warmly and affectionately with everyone. She carried herself with immense dignity and grace. I have watched many of her iconic films like 'Mallammana Pavada', 'Kittur Chennamma', 'Bhagyavantharu', 'Babruvahana', and 'Nyayave Devaru'. Her passing is a deep loss to the entire film industry. She entered the world of cinema at a young age and remained an artist for over seven decades. She was conferred the title 'Abhinava Saraswati' early in her career. She acted alongside legendary actors across all major film industries — including Dilip Kumar, Rajendra Kumar, Dev Anand, M.G.R., N.T.R., Sivaji Ganesan, and Dr. Rajkumar." He added, "Saroja Devi brought life to every role she played. Even in her personal life, she was known for her disciplined and principled lifestyle. She made immense contributions to the growth of Kannada cinema. Her passing is a profound loss to the industry. I pray that her soul may rest in peace, and may her family find the strength to bear this loss. Her final rites will be performed with full state honours in her hometown. I will be discussing the renaming of the street she lived on in her honour with the Greater Bengaluru authority." PM Modi - Saddened by the passing of the noted film personality Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to the late actress. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: 'Saddened by the passing of the noted film personality, B. Saroja Devi Ji. She will be remembered as an exemplary icon of Indian cinema and culture. Her diverse performances left an indelible mark across generations. Her works, spanning different languages and covering diverse themes, highlighted her versatile nature. My condolences to her family and admirers. Om Shanti.'
Hindustan Times
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
B Saroja Devi: Veteran actor who was an iconic face in cinema landscape of the country
B Saroja Devi, one of the most iconic faces of Indian cinema across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu and Hindi movies, died in Bengaluru on Monday at the age of 87. She had been suffering from age-related health issues. Born on January 7, 1938 in Bengaluru, B Saroja Devi was awarded Padma Shri in 1967 and Padma Bhushan in 1992 (HT photo) Often remembered as the 'first female superstar' of Kannada films, Saroja Devi began her acting journey at the age of 17 with Mahakavi Kalidasa in 1955. Over the next seven decades, she appeared in more than 200 films and left a mark on audiences across the country. Born on January 7, 1938 in Bengaluru, she was awarded Padma Shri in 1967 and Padma Bhushan in 1992. She also received the Kalaimamani award, the Dr Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award, and the NTR National Award in both 2001 and 2009. In 2008, the Government of India honoured her with a Lifetime Achievement Award during the 60th Independence Day celebrations. Her Kannada roles in Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, Mallammana Pavada, Kasturi Nivasa, Naagakannike and Bettada Hoovu earned her widespread acclaim. She was popularly called Abhinaya Saraswathi, or Goddess of Acting, for her expressive style. A memorable line she delivered in Kittur Chennamma — 'Nimage yaake kodabeku naavu kappa' — translated as 'Why should we pay you a tribute' became a fixture in school stage performances across Karnataka, with many students dressing as Rani Chennamma, a popular freedom fighter, to recite it. Her onscreen pairing with MG Ramachandran (MGR) in Tamil cinema became a sensation. The two worked together in 26 consecutive hits between 1958 and 1966, including Nadodi Mannan, Thirudathe, Thaai Sollai Thattadhe, Enga Veetu Pillai and Anbe Vaa. After these successes, Saroja Devi was seen as a top star in the Tamil industry and, for a time, considered too expensive for Kannada filmmakers. Her work in Telugu films began with Panduranga Mahatyam in 1957. She went on to star in films such as Jagadeka Veeruni Katha, Seetharama Kalyana, Shakuntala, Pramilaanjaneyam, Rahasyam alongside ANR, and Daagudu Moothalu with NT Rama Rao. Many of these were based on mythology or folklore. In Hindi, she acted in films like Paigham, Preet Na Jaane Reet, Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya, Opera House and Sasural. Her ability to move between languages and film cultures set her apart, and she later returned to Kannada cinema to take on supporting and character roles. Her last screen appearance was in the 2019 film Natasaarvabhowma. Condoling her death, chief minister Siddaramaiah said in a post on X: '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. Through films of refined taste she entertained cinephiles for several decades. Her passing marks a tremendous loss for Indian cinema. I pray that her soul rests in peace. My heartfelt condolences to her grieving family and fans.' Actor Khushbu Sundar wrote on X, 'An era gold 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. Such a lovable adorable soul she was. Had a great rapport with her. My trip to Bengaluru was incomplete without meeting her. And whenever in Chennai, she would call. Will miss her immensely. Rest in peace Amma. Om Shanti.'
Economic Times
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
B Saroja Devi death: Veteran Kannada actress dies at 87. Actors and politicians mourn her death as condolences pour in
Synopsis Veteran actress B Saroja Devi passes away at 87 in Bengaluru. She debuted in 1955 with 'Mahakavi Kalidasa'. She gained fame across South Indian cinema. She starred in over 200 films in Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. Rajinikanth and Khushbu Sundar paid tribute. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed sorrow. Her roles in 'Kittur Chennamma' and 'Babruvahana' are remembered. Politicians and celebrities mourn the death of Kannada actress, B Saroja Devi's death. Actress B Saroja Devi's death has left the industry and many politicians in shock. On Monday, the first female superstar of Kannada cinema, fondly remembered as 'Abhinaya Saraswathi' and 'Kannadathu Paingili', breathed her last at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru, at the age of 87. The cause of death was age-related health issues, reported Devi's story began like a film script — she was just 17 when she debuted in the 1955 Kannada film Mahakavi Kalidasa, a role that not only launched her into stardom but also won her a National Award. Her striking screen presence, emotive expressions, and magnetic charm quickly made her a household name across the South. By 1958, her stardom transcended regional boundaries with the Tamil blockbuster Nadodi Mannan opposite M.G. Ramachandran, cementing her status as a pan-Indian actress. After her marriage in 1967, an act that traditionally ended many actresses' careers in those days, Saroja Devi continued to rule the silver screen, especially in Tamil a career spanning six decades, Saroja Devi starred in over 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi, bringing to life unforgettable characters in both mythological and historical epics. Her performances in classics like Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, and Anna Thangi are etched in the memory of millions of for her versatility, she was as comfortable in emotionally rich dramas as she was in politically resonant roles. Her poise, grace, and the sheer force of her performances earned her not only admiration from audiences but also several accolades, including the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. News of her passing triggered a flood of tributes from across the country. Political leaders joined in the chorus of grief. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's tweet, when translated to English, read, 'The news of the passing of senior Kannada actress B. Sarojadevi has caused deep sorrow. She had acted in approximately 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema, earning fame as the goddess of acting.' — siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) He added, 'The moment Sarojadevi is mentioned, her captivating performances in films like Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, and Annathangi come to mind. Her departure, having entertained audiences for decades through refined films, is a significant loss to Indian cinema. I pray that Sarojadevi's soul finds peace. My condolences to her grieving family and fans.' Superstar Rajinikanth tweeted, 'The great actress Saroja Devi, who won the hearts of millions of fans, is no longer with us. May her soul rest in peace.' — rajinikanth (@rajinikanth) Actor and politician Khushbu Sundar shared an emotional message along with a black-and-white photo of the actress: 'An era gold golden cinema comes to an end. #SarojaDevi amma was the greatest of all times. No other female actor in south has ever enjoyed the name and fame as her." — khushsundar (@khushsundar) She added, "Such a lovable, adorable soul she was. Had a great rapport with her. My trip to Bengaluru was incomplete without meeting her. And whenever in Chennai, she would call. Will miss her immensely. Rest in peace, Amma. Om Shanti.'
India.com
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Dilip Kumar helped Saroja Devi continue her acting career post-marriage, her husband...
Dilip Kumar helped Saroja Devi continue her acting career post-marriage, her husband... Veteran actress Saroja Devi, known for her extensive work in regional cinema passed away at the age of 87 on Monday (July 14, 2025). According to reports, she was suffering from age-related illness and breathed her last in Bengaluru. Regarded as the first superstar of Kannada cinema, Saroja made her acting debut with the Kannada film Mahakavi Kalidasa (1955). She then went on to appear in classics such as School Master (1958), Kittur Chennamma (1961), Amarashilpi Jakanachari (1963), Mallammana Pavada (1968)and more. Her career spanned not just in Kannada cinema but also in Tamil, Telugu and Hindi films. She became a well known figure in 1950 and 1960s because of her iconic performances, and solidified her position as a leading actress. In 1967, Saroja Devi tied the knot with Sri Harsha, an engineer at Bharat Electronics. Well, their relationship was a testament to true love, support and companionship. Sri Harsha was not just her partner, but a pillar of support helping her navigate through financial troubles and encouraging to continue her acting career. After marriage, Saroja Devi's career rose to fame, and she became widely famous in Kannada cinema. It was her husband who pushed her to continue acting post-marriage. Interestingly, many might not know this but Dilip Kumar played a massive role in shaping Sri Harsha's decision. Earlier, in one of the interviews, When Saroja Devi was asked about her persistent commitment to acting, she told that Dilip Kumar once advised Saira Banu to not quit working in films after marriage. Rajesh Khanna then shared this anecdote with her husband, who then encouraged her to not abandon the acting profession. After her husband passed away in 1986, she was devastated, and completely withdrew herself from the limelight. However, after a year, she proved her determination and commitment by making a successful comeback to films with Lady Tailor. Talking about her accolades, she was honoured with prestigious Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan for her remarkable contribution to Indian cinema. She was also conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Government of India in 2008.
