Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM D. K. Shivakumar, and other political leaders expressed deep sorrow over the demise of veteran South Indian actress B. Saroja Devi, who passed away on Monday at the age of 87.

Remembered as "Abhinaya Saraswati", Saroja Devi left behind an unparalleled legacy in Indian cinema with over 200 films across Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi languages.

PM Modi Condoles Demise Of Saroja Devi

“Saddened by the passing of the noted film personality, B. Saroja Devi Ji. She will be remembered as an exemplary icon of Indian cinema and culture. Her diverse performances left an indelible mark across generations. Her works, spanning different languages and covering diverse themes highlighted her versatile nature. My condolences to her family and admirers. Om Shanti,” Prime Minister Modi wrote in his tribute.

 

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Pays Tribute

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah called her passing a “great loss to Indian cinema” and praised her illustrious contributions through decades of performances. “The news of the death of veteran Kannada actress B Saroja Devi is painful. She acted in about 200 Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and Kannada language films and was known as Abhinaya Saraswati.”

Recalling her notable roles, he added: “When we think of Saroja Devi, her soulful performances in films like Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, Anna Thangi come to mind. She entertained moviegoers for decades.”

Deputy CM DK Shivakumar: “A Loving Farewell”

Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar echoed the sentiment on X, writing: “A loving farewell to Abhinaya Saraswathi. The news of the demise of senior Kannada actress B Saroja Devi, popularly known as Abhinaya Saraswathi, is painful. She acted in five languages and served the film industry for 6 decades.”

Opposition and Former Leaders Remember Her Iconic Roles

Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka called her death “an irreparable loss” not only for Kannada cinema but for Indian cinema as a whole.

Former CM Basavaraj Bommai emphasised her influence through mythological and historical films: “She had acted in many mythological and historical films and was a household name among Kannadigas. Her portrayal of Kittur Chennamma is still remembered by everyone.”

“Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards were sought after for her achievements,” he noted.

About B. Saroja Devi

Known as the first female superstar of Kannada cinema, B. Saroja Devi’s career spanned over six decades and more than 200 films. She was widely celebrated for her grace, powerful screen presence, and dedication to her craft. Her death at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru marks the end of an era that defined South Indian cinema’s golden age.

Her memory lives on not only through her iconic performances but also in the hearts of those who grew up admiring her work.