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Time of India
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Saroja Devi death: PM Modi pays tribute - 'An exemplary icon of Indian cinema and culture'
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) Veteran South Indian actress B. Saroja Devi passed away at the age of 87 at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru on July 14. Reportedly, the actress had been battling age-related ailments in recent months. The late actress was fondly remembered as Abhinaya Saraswathi in Kannada and Kannadathu Paingili in Tamil cinema. Her legacy spanned over 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi industries. PM Narendra Modi pays tribute - "Exemplary icon of Indian cinema and culture" Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to mourn her passing, calling her an "exemplary icon of Indian cinema and culture." The Tweet read, "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." Tributes pour In from across India Superstar Rajinikanth also expressed deep sorrow. He wrote, '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' 'பல கோடி ரசிகர்களின் மனம் கவர்ந்த மாபெரும் நடிகை சரோஜாதேவி இப்போது நம்முடன் இல்லை. அவருடைய ஆத்மா சாந்தியடையட்டும்.' Actor Shiva Rajkumar, visibly emotional, described her as 'another mother' and recounted a lifelong bond. Taking to the media he said, 'She has seen me since the time I was born. I think we can't forget her in a lifetime. More than being a superstar, she was a good human being, full of love and affection.' A legendary actor Saroja Devi made her film debut at just 17 with 'Mahakavi Kalidasa' (1955), going on to become Kannada cinema's first female superstar. Her Tamil breakthrough came with 'Nadodi Mannan' (1958). She starred opposite M.G. Ramachandran in 'Nadodi Mannan'. She continued to dominate the film industry through the 1960s and 70s, earning the Padma Shri (1969), Padma Bhushan (1992), and Kalaimamani awards, and served on the jury of the 53rd National Film Awards.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
When Saroja Devi called MGR ‘anbu daivam'; revealed why she opposed remarriage post-husband's early demise: 'I could manage my life without a male companion'
The demise of veteran actress B. Saroja Devi has left an indelible void in South Indian cinema. She was known for her on-screen chemistry with M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), and the actress won hearts in Kollywood through several acclaimed films. Saroja Devi's Films with MGR Saroja Devi and MGR collaborated on classic films such as Nadodi Mannan (1958), Paasam (1962), Deiva Thai (1964), Enga Veettu Pillai (1965), and Anbe Vaa (1966). Legendary South Indian actor B. Saroja Devi dies at 87 Though their professional association came to an abrupt halt in 1967 due to a misunderstanding, the mutual admiration between the two stars remained intact. In an old interview with Deccan Chronicle in 2016, Saroja referred to MGR as her 'anbu daivam' (lovable god). 'When he introduced me in Nadodi Mannan, I was so naïve. He took care of me so well and used to give advice and tips while acting. After that, we acted together in several films. Without MGR, there's no Saroja Devi!' she shared. Memories of MGR's Home She also fondly recalled her time at MGR's residence, Ramavaram Thottam. 'I have gone to his house several times and had food there. The house used to always be cool with its red oxide flooring. There wouldn't be a separate dining table, and instead, there would be a long bench. I consider it a temple and believe that MGR still lives there,' she stated. Why She Did Not Remarry Saroja also opened up about her decision not to remarry after losing her husband, Shri Harsha, in 1986. The couple tied the knot in 1967, and she did not marry again after his demise. 'After my husband's demise at a young age, a lot of people told me to remarry. I said 'no', and I couldn't think of anyone else in his place. I was confident that I could manage my life without a male companion,' she said. Saroja Devi breathed her last on Monday (July 14) at the age of 87, at her home in Malleswaram, Bengaluru.
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
When Saroja Devi called MGR ‘anbu daivam' while talking about their bond; revealed why she never remarried after husband's early demise
With the passing of B Saroja Devi, South Indian cinema has lost one of its most cherished silver screen icons. At the same time, her demise has also taken away a major part of the legacy of actor-turned-politician MG Ramachandran (MGR). Interestingly, MGR and Saroja Devi were one of Indian cinema's most iconic on-screen pairs, often mentioned alongside other legendary duos like Raj Kapoor–Nargis Dutt, Dilip Kumar–Vyjayanthimala and Prem Nazir–Sheela. Besides sharing the screen in films like Nadodi Mannan (1958), Paasam (1962), Deiva Thai (1964), En Kadamai (1964), Thaayin Madiyil (1964), Panakkara Kudumbam (1964), Enga Veettu Pillai (1965), Nadodi (1966), Anbe Vaa (1966), Naan Aanaiyittal (1966) and Arasa Kattalai (1967), among others, Saroja Devi also held immense respect for MGR. According to The Hindu, although the two actors had a falling-out in 1967 due to a misunderstanding and never worked together again, their respect for each other remained unchanged. In fact, Saroja Devi once referred to MGR as her 'anbu daivam', underscoring the deep admiration she had for MGR. 'When he introduced me in Nadodi Mannan, I was so naïve. He took care of me so well and used to give advice and tips while acting. After that, we have acted together in several films. Without MGR, there's no Saroja Devi!' she shared during a 2016 conversation with Deccan Chronicle. Recalling her visits to MGR's famous house, Ramavaram Thottam, Saroja said: 'I have gone to his house several times and had food there. The house used to be always cool with its red oxide flooring. There won't be a separate dining table, and there will be a long bench instead. I consider it a temple and believe that MGR still lives there'. During the same conversation, B Saroja Devi also revealed why she did not remarry after the sudden demise of her husband, Shri Harsha, an engineer by profession. They tied the knot in 1967 in an arranged marriage ceremony and were together until Harsha passed away in 1986. 'After my husband's demise at a young age, a lot of people told me to remarry. I said 'no' and I couldn't think of anyone else in his place. I was confident that I could manage my life without a male companion,' she added. Saroja Devi passed away at the age of 87 on Monday following an age-related illness. She breathed her last at her residence in Malleswaram, a neighbourhood in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Remembering B Saroja Devi with her best films: From Mahakavi Kalidasa, Nadodi Mannan to Anbe Vaa, Kittur Chennamma
Veteran actor B Saroja Devi died in Bengaluru on Monday at the age of 87. News agency PTI, citing film industry sources, said that she died due to age-related ailments at her residence in Malleswaram. She was fondly called 'Kannadathu Paingili' (Kannada's parrot) in Tamil, and 'Abhinaya Saraswathi' in Kannada. B Saroja Devi played lead in over 160 films from 1955-84. The actor got her first break when she was 17 years old in the Kannada film Mahakavi Kalidasa (1955). Her Tamil film with another legendary actor and former chief minister of Tamil Nadu, M G Ramachandran, Nadodi Mannan (1958), made her one of the top female actors of Tamil cinema. We pay tribute to the legendary actor with a list of her best films: A still from Mahakavi Kalidasa. Mahakavi Kalidasa The 1955 Kannada film marked Saroja Devi's debut. Directed by KR Seetharama Sastry, it is based on the legends of the poet Kalidasa. Saroja starred along with Honnappa Bhagavatar, B Raghavendra Rao, and Narasimharaju. Saroja received praise for her role. At the 3rd National Film Awards, the film won the award for Best Feature Film in Kannada. Nadodi Mannan Released in 1958, Nadodi Mannan marked Saroja Devi's debut in Tamil cinema and established her as a successful actor. Directed by MG Ramachandran in his debut as a filmmaker, he starred in dual roles alongside P Bhanumathi, MN Rajam, PS Veerappa, MN Nambiar, and MG Chakrapani. The film revolves around a king being replaced by a look-alike after getting abducted on the eve of his coronation. Saroja Devi played the king's daughter in the film. Made on a budget of ₹18 lakh, the film was a commercial success, grossing ₹1.1 crore in its lifetime. A still from Enga Veetu Pillai. Enga Veetu Pillai In the 1965 blockbuster film, she played a rich landlord's daughter. She was lauded for her role. The Tamil film, directed by Chanakya, also starred MG Ramachandran, SV Ranga Rao, MN Nambiar, Rathna and Pandari Bai in supporting roles. The film emerged as a major box office success and established young Saroja as a style icon. Anbe Vaa In the 1966 film, she played a rich girl who falls in love with a disguised industrialist. The Tamil romantic comedy film, directed by AC Tirulokchandar, also featured MG Ramachandran, SA Ashokan, Nagesh, and TR Ramachandran. Anbe Vaa received positive reviews from critics and was also a commercial success. Saroja Devi was praised for her performance. A still from Kittur Chennamma. Kittur Chennamma In the 1963 Kannada patriotic film, Saroja Devi played a freedom fighter who led an armed rebellion against the British East India Company in 1824, and died in captivity in 1829. She earned critical acclaim and national recognition. Directed by BR Panthulu, the film also starred MV Rajamma and Leelavathi. The film was awarded the Best Feature Film in Kannada at the 9th National Film Awards. School Master The 1958 Kannada film directed by BR Panthulu also won a National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Kannada. The film also starred Panthulu, Dikki Madhava Rao, MV Rajamma, Udaykumar, Sivaji Ganesan, and Gemini Ganesan. Padagotti The 1964 Tamil film, directed by T Prakash Rao, also starred MG Ramachandran, MN Nambiar, SV Ramadas, and Nagesh. In it, Saroja Devi played the daughter of the leader of the fishing community. Padagotti became a commercial success, with a theatrical run of over 100 days. Saroja Devi worked in over 200 Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi films. She is also known as the first female superstar of Kannada cinema.
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Who Was Saroja Devi? Actress Who Died At 87 Was Kannada Cinema's First Woman Superstar
Last Updated: B Saroja Devi, legendary Indian actress, passed away at 87 in Bengaluru. Known for Kannada and Tamil cinema, she starred in 161 films. The lights have dimmed on one of Indian cinema's brightest stars. B Saroja Devi passed away at the age of 87 in Bengaluru. Her death leaves behind a huge void in cinema. Saroja Devi was more than just a famous face. She was one of the very first women to carry films on her shoulders at a time when very few were allowed that space. Saroja Devi's entry into cinema began early. At the age of 13, she was first noticed by filmmaker B.R. Krishnamurthy while singing at a public event. She had declined the offer then. She made her debut at just 17 in the Kannada film Mahakavi Kalidasa (1955), and her performance was so powerful, it won her a National Award. That was just the beginning of a career that would inspire generations. She went on to deliver powerful performances in several beloved Kannada films, including Kittur Chennamma, Anna Thamma, Bhakta Kanakadasa, Bale Bangara, Nagakannike, Bettada Hoovu, and the iconic Kasturi Nivasa. These films not only showcased her range as an actress but also cemented her place as a true legend in Kannada cinema. With the success of Nadodi Mannan in 1958, alongside M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), she became a household name in Tamil cinema too. And from there, she never looked back. She gave us unforgettable films like Kittur Chennamma, Mallammana Pavada, and Amarashilpi Jakanachari. The Tamil film Nadodi Mannan (1958) made her one of the top actresses in Tamil cinema. After the massive success of Nadodi Mannan, Saroja Devi quickly became one of the most sought-after actresses in Tamil cinema. She starred opposite the top heroes of that era—Gemini Ganesan in Kalyana Parisu (1959), Sivaji Ganesan in Bhaaga Pirivinai (1959), and once again with M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) in Thirudadhe (1961). Her association with Tamil films only grew stronger, with back-to-back hits like Palum Pazhamum (1961), Aalayamani (1962), Periya Idathu Penn (1963), Puthiya Paravai (1964), Panakkara Kudumbam (1964), Enga Veetu Pillai (1965), and Anbe Vaa (1966). Saroja Devi was often referred to as a 'lucky mascot" for MGR films, thanks to the phenomenal success of their collaborations. The two went on to work together in 26 films—a rare and iconic pairing in Indian cinema. Her success wasn't limited to Tamil cinema. In Kannada, she was already making waves with notable films like Chintamani (1957), School Master (1958), and Jagajyothi Basveshwara (1959). One of her most celebrated performances came in Kittooru Rani Chennamma (1961), where she played a fierce and patriotic queen who stood up against British rule. Her portrayal earned widespread praise. In 1964, Saroja Devi starred alongside Kalyan Kumar in Amarashilpi Jakanachaari, which made history as the first full-length Kannada film in colour. Kannada's 1st woman superstar! Saroja Devi holds the rare distinction of being the only Indian actress to have played the lead heroine in 161 consecutive films over a span of 29 years, from 1955 to 1984. Her remarkable contributions to cinema were recognised with several prestigious honours, including the Padma Shri in 1969 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992 – two of India's highest civilian awards. She was also awarded an honorary doctorate by Bangalore University and received the Kalaimamani award from the Government of Tamil Nadu for her outstanding work in the arts. Personal life B. Saroja Devi was born on 7 January 1938 in Bangalore, then part of the Mysore State (now Karnataka), into a Vokkaliga family. Her father, Bhairappa, served as a police officer, while her mother, Rudramma, was a homemaker. Saroja Devi was the fourth daughter in the family. It was her father who recognised her talent early on and encouraged her to learn classical dance, eventually guiding her towards a career in films. He would often accompany her to studios, tying on her salangais before performances and gently massaging her sore feet after long hours of dancing ; Her mother, on the other hand, maintained a strict sense of decorum for her daughter's public image. She laid down clear boundaries: no swimsuits and no sleeveless blouses — rules Saroja Devi respectfully followed throughout her career, even as a major film star. On 1 March 1967, B. Saroja Devi married Sri Harsha, an engineer who worked with Bharat Electronics, a public sector enterprise. At the time of their marriage, Saroja Devi was reportedly facing financial difficulties and issues with income tax. Sri Harsha played a pivotal role in helping her navigate those challenges. He guided her through financial management and stood by her as a strong support system during a tough phase in her life. Unlike many women of her time who stepped away from the spotlight after marriage, Saroja Devi continued acting — thanks in part to her husband's encouragement. In an interview, when asked how she was able to continue acting even after marriage despite her mother's traditional expectations, she shared, 'Dilip Kumar once said he has asked Saira Banu not to stop acting. The story was mentioned by Rajesh Khanna to my husband Sri Harsha, not to stop me from acting." Their marriage remained strong until Sri Harsha's passing in 1986, after a prolonged illness. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
