Bengaluru, July 14 . Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai paid a moving tribute to legendary actress Dr B Saroja Devi, calling her performance in Kittur Rani Chennamma a defining moment in Kannada cinema and national memory.
“That film gained emotional depth because of her,” he said. “Her performance made people believe that this is what Rani Chennamma must have truly been like. Her acting and dialogue delivery are still remembered by the younger generation. She powerfully conveyed the resistance against British colonial rule. This is an especially sorrowful day for the film industry.”
Dr Saroja Devi, aged 87, passed away at her residence in Malleswaram after a prolonged illness due to aging. Her demise has left the Kannada film industry and fans across India in deep mourning.
One of Indian cinema’s brightest stars, Saroja Devi’s contribution to film, culture, and Kannada identity remains unparalleled. She earned legendary status across four major film industries — Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi — and acted with cinematic greats like Dr Rajkumar, MG Ramachandran, NT Rama Rao, Dilip Kumar, and Rajendra Kumar.
As both an artist and a leading heroine, she carved a unique space in the cultural and cinematic heritage of Karnataka and the nation.
Karnataka Assembly LoP R Ashoka recalled, “She received numerous national and state awards. I consider it a blessing that I had the opportunity to personally present her with a Lifetime Achievement Award. That moment remains vivid in my memory. She would always speak to me warmly, like a daughter.”
He added, “She was married in Kodigehalli, near my hometown, and she often said that made us extended family. She served Kannada cinema with deep pride and stood out even when others sought stardom elsewhere.”
Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar also expressed his sorrow, stating, “A senior actor from Karnataka has left us, and her family is in a very helpless state. She had participated in many government programs and had always received our full support. I personally pray for peace to her soul.”
He said, “She had also worked with Dr Rajkumar in numerous South Indian films. When we think of her, many fond memories come back. Her passing has deeply saddened all her fans. Karnataka has lost one of its most senior and cherished artists.”
Dr Saroja Devi had been unwell in recent years and had mostly stayed out of the public eye for the past year. Yet, until recently, she continued to attend public events, displaying her enduring commitment to cinema and to her admirers.
Affectionately known as “Abhishek Rajadevi”, she remains an irreplaceable figure in the history of Indian cinema. Her legacy as a pure Kannada artist who achieved pan-India success will continue to inspire generations.
As Karnataka mourns her loss, tributes have poured in from political leaders, artists, and fans. The government and the film fraternity have extended heartfelt condolences to her family.
. . PRS
