Veteran actress B Saroja Devi, 'Abhinaya Saraswathi', dies at 87
By : Krishna Mishra
Legendary Indian actress B Saroja Devi, affectionately known as ‘Abhinaya Saraswathi’, passed away on Monday at the age of 87 due to age-related ailments. She breathed her last at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru.
Saroja Devi began her illustrious film career in 1955 with the Kannada movie Mahakavi Kalidasa. Over a remarkable span of seven decades, she featured in more than 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi cinema, earning admiration for her expressive acting and enduring screen presence.
Some of her most celebrated films include Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, Anna Thangi, Bhakta Kanakadasa, Bale Bangaara, Naagakannike, Kasturi Nivasa, Nadodi Mannan, Panduranga Mahatyam, and Thirumanam. Her final appearance was in the 2019 Kannada film Natasaarvabhowma.
Tributes poured in from fans, politicians, and celebrities. Actress Khushbu Sundar paid an emotional tribute, calling her “the greatest of all times” and recalling their personal bond. She described Saroja Devi as a lovable and humble soul who left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Her performances in films like Kittur Chennamma and Babruvahana remain etched in our hearts. Her demise is a tremendous loss for Indian cinema.”
As fans mourn her passing, B Saroja Devi’s legacy continues to inspire generations in the world of cinema.