Veteran actor B Saroja Devi, a prominent figure in regional cinema, passed away at the age of 87 in Bengaluru on July 14, 2025. Her demise was attributed to age-related health issues. She is celebrated as the first superstar of Kannada cinema, having made her debut in the landmark 1955 film Mahakavi Kalidasa.
Throughout her illustrious career, Saroja Devi starred in numerous classic films, including School Master (1958), Kittur Chennamma (1961), and Amarashilpi Jakanachari (1963). She became a notable name in the Tamil film industry after being cast by the legendary M.G. Ramachandran in the film Nadodi Mannan. Over the years, she appeared in over 20 films with MGR, showcasing her talent in titles like Palum Pazhamum (1961), Aalayamani (1962), and Enga Veetu Pillai (1965).
Additionally, Saroja Devi had a significant presence in Telugu cinema, collaborating with renowned actor NT Rama Rao in films such as Seetarama Kalyanam (1961) and Jagadeka Veeruni Katha (1961). Her contributions to Indian cinema were recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri in 1969 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992. In 2008, she was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Government of India.
Beyond regional cinema, Saroja Devi also shared the screen with Hindi film legends such as Dilip Kumar and Rajendra Kumar. Her legacy will likely influence generations of actors in the Indian film industry. There will be more detailed reports and obituaries to commemorate her remarkable life and career.