Indian cinema has lost one of its most respected and loved stars. B. Saroja Devi, who is called the First Female Superstar of Kannada Cinema, passed away at the age of 87 in Bengaluru on July 14, 2025. She was suffering from age-related health problems. Her passing has left fans, celebrities, and the entire film industry heartbroken.
B. Saroja Devi: A True Legend of Indian Cinema
B. Saroja Devi was not just a film star; she was an icon of grace, beauty, and talent. She was lovingly known as ‘Abhinaya Saraswathi’ in Tamil, meaning Goddess Saraswathi of Acting. In Kannada, people called her ‘Kannadathu Paingili’, which means Kannada’s Sweet Parrot.
She acted in over 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi languages. Her performances, her screen presence, and her dedication to her art made her a household name.
Her Early Life And Family Support
B. Saroja Devi was born on January 7, 1938, in a Vokkaliga family in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Her father was a police officer and her mother was a homemaker. It was her father who first noticed her talent and encouraged her to learn dance and acting.
Her parents were supportive of her career, but her mother taught her to maintain dignity in films. Throughout her long career, she followed her mother’s advice and never broke those boundaries.
Her Acting Journey That Made History
Saroja Devi’s journey started at just 17 years old with the Kannada film ‘Mahakavi Kalidasa’ in 1955, which was a big success. But it was the 1958 Tamil film ‘Nadodi Mannan’ opposite superstar M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) that gave her fame across India.
She also became popular in Telugu cinema with ‘Panduranga Mahatyam’ in 1957 and later acted in Hindi films with stars like Shammi Kapoor.
Her dedication was so strong that she holds the record of acting as lead heroine in more than 161 consecutive films between 1955 and 1984, something no actress has matched.
Her Role Beyond Acting
Apart from acting, Saroja Devi worked for the betterment of the film industry. She served as Vice-President of Kannada Film Association and was also made Chairperson of the Jury for the 53rd National Film Awards. She was respected not just as an actress, but as someone who shaped the future of Indian cinema.
Tributes Pour In From Fans and Industry
B. Saroja Devi will always be remembered as the First Lady Superstar of Kannada Cinema. Her dance, acting, and emotional expressions are still studied by young artists today. Even after she retired, she remained active in the arts and continued inspiring others.
She passed away peacefully at her home in Bengaluru, surrounded by her family. After the news broke, condolences from actors, directors, politicians, and fans have flooded in.
Her contribution to Indian cinema will forever shine through her timeless films.
Conclusion
The passing of B. Saroja Devi is not just a loss for Kannada cinema but for all Indian cinema lovers. She broke barriers, created history, and left behind a legacy of dignity, talent, and respect. New generations will continue to learn from her work and remember her as the shining star who ruled hearts across South India.
May her soul rest in peace.
FAQs
Who was B. Saroja Devi?
She was a legendary actress from South India, known as the First Female Superstar of Kannada cinema.
How did B. Saroja Devi die?
She passed away at the age of 87 in Bengaluru due to age-related health issues.
How many films did B. Saroja Devi act in?
She acted in more than 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi languages.
What was her most famous movie?
Her biggest breakthrough was ‘Nadodi Mannan’ with M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) in Tamil cinema.
Did she work beyond acting?
Yes, she served as Vice-President of Kannada Film Association and was Chairperson for National Film Awards Jury.