Veteran actress known as ‘Abhinaya Saraswathi’ leaves behind a legacy of over 200 films; last rites to be performed in her native Dasavara village on Tuesday
Bengaluru: The curtains have fallen on a golden era of Indian cinema with the demise of veteran actress B. Saroja Devi, who passed away at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru, on Monday morning. She was 87 and had been suffering from age-related ailments, according to her family.
A towering figure in Indian cinema, Saroja Devi, often referred to as “Abhinaya Saraswathi” (Goddess of Acting), captivated audiences for more than seven decades, acting in over 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi languages. Her death has plunged the film fraternity and her admirers into deep mourning.
Her last rites will be performed on Tuesday at 11:30 a.m. at her native place, Dasavara village in Channapatna taluk, following Vokkaliga traditions, her son Gautam informed the media.
“Arrangements have been made for the last rites till tomorrow morning. The funeral will be held as per Vokkaliga traditions,” said Gautam, addressing reporters in Bengaluru.
A Star Across Four Languages and Generations
Making her silver screen debut in 1955 with the Kannada film ‘Mahakavi Kalidasa’, B. Saroja Devi quickly became a household name with films like Kittur Chennamma, Bhakta Kanakadasa, Bale Bangaara, Kasturi Nivasa, and Babruvahana. She later went on to mesmerize audiences in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema with memorable performances in Nadodi Mannan, Panduranga Mahatyam, and Thirumanam, among others.
She was last seen in the 2019 Kannada film ‘Natasaarvabhowma’, marking the end of a majestic cinematic journey.
Nation Mourns: PM Modi and Chief Ministers Pay Tribute
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X to express his grief and admiration for the legendary actress:
“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.”
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also paid a heartfelt tribute:
“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.”
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also acknowledged her monumental contributions and the emotional void her passing leaves in Indian cinema.
A Personal Loss to Fellow Artists and Admirers
Actress and BJP leader Khushbu Sundar posted an emotional note on X:
“An era of golden cinema comes to an end. #SarojaDevi amma was the greatest of all time. No other female actor in the South has ever enjoyed the name and fame as her. Such a lovable, adorable soul she was. 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.”
The Legacy of Abhinaya Saraswathi
From mythological dramas to social commentaries, romantic classics to historical sagas, B. Saroja Devi was a part of India’s most formative years in cinema. Her elegance, expressive eyes, and impeccable acting earned her countless accolades and a permanent place in the hearts of millions.
Her journey from a young debutant in 1955 to becoming one of India’s most celebrated actresses is a testament to her talent, discipline, and emotional depth on screen. Her contribution went beyond cinema as she remained a symbol of grace, resilience, and womanhood in Indian popular culture.
Final Farewell
As Karnataka prepares to bid goodbye to one of its most cherished daughters, arrangements have been made for the public to pay their last respects before the funeral in Dasavara.
“The void left by Saroja Devi cannot be filled. Her contribution to the arts and her role in shaping Indian cinema will be remembered forever,” said a senior film critic from Bengaluru.
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