Iconic South Indian Actress B Saroja Devi Passes Away at 87

BENGALURU: Renowned South Indian actress B Saroja Devi passed away at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru, on Monday, July 14, 2025, at the age of 87, according to reports from Udayavani. The veteran star succumbed to age-related ailments, marking the end of an illustrious career that spanned over seven decades.

Fondly known as “Abhinaya Saraswathi” (Goddess of Acting) in Kannada cinema and “Kannadathu Paingili” (Kannada’s Parrot) in Tamil cinema, Saroja Devi debuted in 1955 with the Kannada film Mahakavi Kalidasa. Her career, which included over 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi industries, established her as a towering figure in Indian cinema. Notable works include Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, Anna Thangi, Bhakta Kanakadasa, Bale Bangaara, Naagakannike, Bettada Hoovu, Kasturi Nivasa, Nadodi Mannan, Karpoora Karasi, Panduranga Mahatyam, and Thirumanam. Her final screen appearance was in the 2019 Kannada film Natasaarvabhowma.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his grief on X, describing Saroja Devi’s passing as a profound loss to Indian cinema. He highlighted her graceful performances in films like Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, and Anna Thangi, noting that her work entertained audiences for decades. A fan echoed this sentiment on X, writing, “An era ends with #SarojaDevi Amma’s passing. A timeless legend, forever in our hearts. Om Shanti.”

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Saroja Devi’s contributions were recognized with prestigious honors, including the Padma Shri in 1969 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992. Celebrities, politicians, and fans took to social media to mourn her demise, celebrating her legacy as a trailblazer in South Indian cinema.