B. Saroja Devi, an iconic figure in Indian film, passed away yesterday at the age of 87.
The renowned actress succumbed to age-related health issues, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most admired leading figures in South Indian cinema.
Devi’s illustrious acting career kicked off in the 1950s, quickly establishing her as one of the nation’s most cherished and prolific actresses.
She made her acting debut in the 1955 Kannada film Mahakavi Kalidasa. However, it was the 1958 Tamil hit Nadodi Mannan that catapulted her to stardom, where she shared the screen with the legendary M.G. Ramachandran (popularly known as MGR). MGR went on to be one of her most regular co-stars, including other famous actors like N.T. Rama Rao and Sivaji Ganeson.
Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Devi dominated the film industry with popular films such as Puthiya Paravai, Kalyana Parisu, Anbe Vaa, and Paigham.
Paigham was particularly significant as it marked one of her initial ventures into Hindi cinema. At the height of her career, she featured in movies across three of the four major South Indian languages. From 1955 to 1984, she was the leading lady in over 160 consecutive films—a remarkable achievement unlikely to be replicated by actors from any other country.
In 1967, Devi wed engineering contractor Sri Harsha. The couple remained together until his passing in 1986. Her final film appearance was in the 2019 Kannada movie Natasaarvabhowma.
In accordance with her last wishes, Devi’s eyes were donated to scientific research.
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