B Saroja Devi Dies at 87: Remembering the Abhinaya Saraswati
Veteran actress B Saroja Devi, fondly known as Abhinaya Saraswati, has passed away at the age of 87. Her demise marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, especially for Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi film industries, where she was celebrated as one of the most iconic and successful actresses of her time.
Early Life and Rise to Stardom
Born on January 7, 1938, in Bengaluru, Saroja Devi was encouraged by her parents to learn dance, which set the stage for her entry into films. She made her debut at just 17 with the Kannada classic Mahakavi Kalidasa in 1955. Her talent and expressive acting quickly earned her the title Abhinaya Saraswati (Goddess of Acting).
Her big break in Tamil cinema came with Nadodi Mannan (1958), where she starred opposite M.G. Ramachandran (MGR). The film’s massive success catapulted her to stardom, making her a household name across South India.
A Prolific Career Spanning Decades
- Over 200 films: Saroja Devi acted in more than 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi languages.
- Record-breaking lead roles: She played the heroine in 161 consecutive films between 1955 and 1984—a feat unmatched in Indian cinema.
- Versatile collaborations: She shared the screen with legends like Rajkumar, Sivaji Ganesan, N.T. Rama Rao, Rajendra Kumar, and Shammi Kapoor.
- Notable films: Her filmography includes classics such as Panduranga Mahatyam, Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, Anna Thangi, Bhakta Kanakadasa, Bale Bangaara, Nadodi Mannan, and Karpoora Karasi.
Honours and Recognition
- Padma Shri (1969) and Padma Bhushan (1992): Prestigious civilian awards from the Government of India for her contributions to the arts.
- Kalaimamani Award: From the Government of Tamil Nadu.
- Honorary Doctorate: Awarded by Bangalore University.
- Lifetime Achievement Awards: Including the Dr. Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award and the NTR National Award.
- Padma Bhushan B. Saroja Devi National Award: Instituted in her name to honor artists in performing arts.
Legacy of the Abhinaya Saraswati
B Saroja Devi was more than just a star—she was a trailblazer for women in Indian cinema. Known for her expressive acting, grace, and versatility, she inspired generations of actors and filmmakers. Her dedication extended beyond acting, as she served as vice-president of the Kannada Chalanchitra Sangha and chaired the jury for the National Film Awards.
Key Achievements Table
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Films | Over 200 across four languages |
| Consecutive Lead Roles | 161 films (1955–1984) |
| Major Awards | Padma Shri (1969), Padma Bhushan (1992) |
| Iconic Titles | Abhinaya Saraswati, Kannadathu Paingili |
| National Award | For debut film Mahakavi Kalidasa |
| Lifetime Achievement Awards | Multiple, including Dr. Rajkumar and NTR National Awards |
| Notable Collaborations | MGR, Sivaji Ganesan, Rajkumar, NTR, Rajendra Kumar |
Her Final Days
B Saroja Devi passed away at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru, on July 14, 2025, after battling age-related ailments. She was surrounded by her loved ones and remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.
The End of an Era
With her passing, Indian cinema bids farewell to one of its brightest stars. B Saroja Devi dies at 87, but her legacy as the Abhinaya Saraswati will continue to inspire and enchant generations to come.