From Saroja Devi to Kota Srinivasa Rao: Stars who left us this year—Take a look
The year 2025 has been a somber one for the South Indian film fraternity, as it bid farewell to several towering figures in South Indian cinema. From trailblazing women in film to beloved character actors, stars behind the screen, and revered veterans, the South Film Industry lost several gems this year.
Here's a look at the most notable losses so far this year:
Stuntman SM Raju
Popular stuntman SM Raju died during the filming of an action sequence in PA Renjith's upcoming film. Actor Vishal revealed SM Raju's death via a tweet that read, "May God give more strength to his family for their grave loss,' he added. 'Not just this tweet—I will definitely be there for his family's future. From the bottom of my heart and as my duty, I extend my support for them."
Prithviraj Sukumaran's social media note read, "Rest in peace, Raju! So many moments of magic that would have been impossible to film without your skill and guts.
You will be missed forever." Mohanlal wrote, "One of our great car-jumping stunt artists, S. M. Raju, died today while doing car stunts. Our stunt union and the Indian film industry will be missing him."
Bhupathiraju Rajagopal Raju
Father of actor Ravi Teja, Rajagopal Raju passed away on July 15 at their family home in Hyderabad.
A retired government pharmacist, he lived a quiet life, rarely appearing in the public eye but remaining a strong presence in his family's life.
Vishnu Prasad
Malayalam actor Vishnu Prasad breathed his last on May 2 in Kochi. Reportedly, the Malayalam actor was battling with a liver-related illness. Vishnu Prasad was well known for intense negative roles in films and TV. His most notable works include 'Lion,' 'Maampazhakkaalam,' 'Runway,' and 'Kaiyethum Doorath.'
B. Saroja Devi
Legendary South Indian actor B. Saroja Devi dies at 87
One of Indian cinema's brightest stars, Saroja Devi passed away on July 14 at her residence in Bengaluru due to age-related ailments. Known as "Abhinaya Saraswathi" and "Kannadathu Paingili," she acted in over 200 films and was honored with Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan for her contributions. Mourning the loss, Rajinikanth wrote on Twitter, "The great actress Saroja Devi, who won the hearts of millions of fans, is no longer with us.
May her soul rest in peace. #SarojaDevi."
Kota Srinivasa Rao
Renowned Telugu actor and former MLA Kota Srinivasa Rao died on July 13 at his Hyderabad home following a prolonged illness. Several celebs mourned the loss of the veteran actor. Actor Tavi Teja tweeted, "Grew up watching him, admiring him, and learning from every performance. Kota Babai was like family to me; I cherish the lovely memories of working with him.
Rest in peace, Kota Srinivasa Rao garu. Om Shanti." Vishnu Manchu wrote on social media, "My heart is heavy with the loss of Sri.
Kota Srinivas garu. A phenomenal actor, an unmatched talent, and a man whose presence lit up every frame he was in. Whether it was a serious role, a villain, or comedy, he brought life into every character with a rare mastery that only a few are blessed with. I had the good fortune of working with him in quite a few films, and I grew up watching him in many more.
His work shaped my admiration for cinema."
Ravikumar Menon
Popular in Malayalam and Tamil cinema, Ravikumar Menon died on April 4 after a fight with lung cancer. He starred in more than 100 films and was known for his graceful screen persona.
Sarigama Viji
Veteran Kannada actor and theater artist, also known as R. Vijaykumar, died on January 15. He was a pillar of Kannada television and stage, remembered for his versatility and deep commitment to the arts.
C. Krishnaveni
A true legend, Krishnaveni was among the first female producers in Telugu cinema. She passed away on February 16, marking the end of an era in early South Indian filmmaking.
Rajesh
Veteran Tamil actor Rajesh died of a sudden heart attack on May 29 in Chennai. A calm and graceful screen presence, he was a staple of Tamil cinema and television for nearly five decades.
Siva Shakthi Datta
Father of 'RRR' and 'Baahubali' director S.S. Rajamouli, lyricist Siva Shakthi Datta died on July 7. He penned many iconic Telugu songs and was revered for his poetic genius.
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