Veteran Actress B Saroja Devi Dies At 87: Here's A Tribute To Her Timeless Legacy And Iconic Songs
Veteran Indian actress B Saroja Devi, revered across South Indian cinema as ‘Abhinaya Saraswathi’, died on Monday at the age of 87. The legendary star breathed her last at her residence in Malleswaram, Bengaluru, following age-related health issues.
In a stellar career that spanned over seven decades, Saroja Devi graced the silver screen in over 200 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. Making her debut with the 1955 Kannada film Mahakavi Kalidasa, she went on to become one of the most celebrated female actors in Indian cinema, especially during the golden era of the 1960s and ’70s.
Also, read | The Director Who Raised A Mayor: Meet Mira Nair And Her Quiet Revolution
Her acclaimed performances in films like Kittur Chennamma, Babruvahana, Bhakta Kanakadasa, Bale Bangaara, Panduranga Mahatyam, Nadodi Mannan, and Thirumanam earned her a permanent place in the hearts of millions. She was last seen in the 2019 Kannada film Natasaarvabhowma.
Recognised for her contributions to Indian cinema, she was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1969 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992.
Tributes poured in from across the nation. Actress Khushbu Sundar remembered her fondly, calling her “the greatest of all times” and a “lovable, adorable soul.”
View this post on Instagram
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah paid homage, stating, “The very mention of Saroja Devi brings to mind her graceful performances… Her passing marks a tremendous loss for Indian cinema.”
ಕನ್ನಡದ ಹಿರಿಯ ನಟಿ ಬಿ.ಸರೋಜಾದೇವಿ ಅವರ ನಿಧನವಾರ್ತೆ ನೋವುಂಟುಮಾಡಿದೆ. ಕನ್ನಡ ಚಿತ್ರರಂಗವು ಸೇರಿದಂತೆ ತಮಿಳು, ತೆಲುಗು ಮತ್ತು ಹಿಂದಿಯ ಸುಮಾರು 200 ಚಿತ್ರಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ನಟಿಸಿ, ಅಭಿನಯ ಸರಸ್ವತಿ ಎಂದೇ ಖ್ಯಾತರಾಗಿದ್ದರು.
ಸರೋಜಾದೇವಿ ಎಂದಾಕ್ಷಣ ಕಿತ್ತೂರು ಚೆನ್ನಮ್ಮ, ಬಬ್ರುವಾಹನ, ಅಣ್ಣತಂಗಿ ಮುಂತಾದ ಚಿತ್ರಗಳಲ್ಲಿನ ಅವರ ಮನೋಜ್ಞ ಅಭಿನಯ… pic.twitter.com/ZOVdrXGqlp
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) July 14, 2025
For many, the melodies that accompanied her on-screen presence remain unforgettable. As a nod to her legacy, here are 5 iconic Tamil songs that capture the elegance, charm, and grace of Saroja Devi — the ‘Kannadathu Paingili’ who ruled Tamil cinema’s golden age:
Andru Vanthathum Idhe Nila (Periya Idathu Penn, 1963) – Sad version
Watch the timeless Tamil romantic classic “Andru Vanthathum Idhe Nila” from the evergreen hit film Periya Idathu Penn, starring M.G. Ramachandran, B. Saroja Devi, M.R. Radha, T.R. Rajakumari, Asokan, Nagesh, Manimala, and Jyotilakshmi. Sung beautifully by T.M. Soundararajan and P. Susheela, with soulful music composed by the legendary duo Viswanathan–Ramamoorthy, the song is a perfect blend of melody and emotion.
Also, read |Jayaram And Kalidas Jayaram Reunite Onscreen After 22 Years In “Aashakal Aayiram”
Directed by T.R. Ramanna, this unforgettable number continues to captivate audiences, symbolising the golden era of Tamil cinema. In it, Saroja Devi and MGR share a tender, emotionally charged moment of quiet vulnerability.
-
Unnai Ondru Ketpen (Puthiya Paravai, 1964)
The evergreen melody “Unnai Ondru Ketpen” from the classic Tamil film Puthiya Paravai features the iconic duo Sivaji Ganesan and B. Saroja Devi, along with M.R. Radha and Sowcar Janaki. Penned by the legendary Kannadasan, the lyrics beautifully capture the essence of love and longing, while the music, composed by the celebrated duo M.S. Viswanathan – T.K. Ramamurthy, enhances its emotional depth. The soulful voice of P. Susheela brings the song to life, making it an unforgettable gem in Tamil cinema’s musical legacy. -
Chittu Kuruvi (Puthiya Paravai, 1964)
The delightful classic “Chittu Kuruvi Mutham Koduthu” from the timeless Tamil film Puthiya Paravai, starring the legendary Sivaji Ganesan, B. Saroja Devi, M.R. Radha, and Sowcar Janaki.
This charming number, brought to life by the melodious voice of P. Susheela, features lyrics penned by the great Kannadasan and music composed by the iconic duo Viswanathan–Ramamoorthy. A playful and romantic gem, the song remains a beloved favourite from Tamil cinema’s golden age.
4. Pudhiya Vaanam (Pudhiya Boomi, 1968)
Anbe Vaa is a beloved Tamil romantic comedy starring M.G. Ramachandran, B. Saroja Devi, Nagesh, Manorama, Asokan, and others. Directed by A.C. Triloka with music composed by M.S. Viswanathan, the film follows the story of a wealthy industrialist (M.G.R.) who decides to take a break from his busy life and retreats to his holiday home in Shimla. Upon arrival, he is shocked to find that his caretaker has rented out the house to Saroja Devi’s family and disappeared with the money.
Choosing to conceal his identity, he pretends to be a wealthy stranger named Balu and offers to rent a portion of the house. What ensues is a playful battle of wits and charm, as M.G.R. teases Saroja Devi with a series of clever pranks, sparking a rivalry that slowly turns into affection.
Just as he gathers the courage to confess his love, he learns that her engagement has already been arranged, leading to a series of twists in this light-hearted and entertaining classic.
5. Thulluvadho Ilamai (Kaviya Thalaivi, 1970)
Listen to the evergreen romantic classic “Naan Paarthathile”, beautifully rendered by T.M. Soundararajan and P. Susheela, from the blockbuster MGR film Anbe Vaa.
Starring M.G. Ramachandran, B. Saroja Devi, Nagesh, and Manorama, the film features music composed by the legendary M.S. Viswanathan, with heartfelt lyrics penned by Vaalee. Directed by A.C. Tirulokchandar and produced by A.V. Meiyappan, Anbe Vaa was released on January 14, 1966, and went on to become one of the biggest hits of its time. This song remains a cherished gem in Tamil cinema’s musical legacy.
Each of these songs featured the voice of P. Susheela, with music composed by M.S. Viswanathan, either solo or as part of the legendary duo Viswanathan–Ramamoorthy. These melodies, paired with Saroja Devi’s expressive performances, are cherished memories for generations of film lovers.
