How B. Saroja Devi Became the First Female Superstar of Kannada Cinema
B. Saroja Devi, who passed away at the age of 87 on July 14, 2025, was more than just a celebrated actress—she was a trailblazer who redefined the landscape of Indian cinema. Known as the first female superstar of Kannada cinema, Saroja Devi’s illustrious career, spanning over five decades and more than 190 films, is a testament to her talent, resilience, and unmatched screen presence. From breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry to becoming a revered cultural icon across South India, her legacy remains unparalleled.
A Humble Beginning that Sparked a Cinematic Revolution
Born on January 7, 1938, in Bengaluru, Saroja Devi entered the world of cinema with no formal training in acting. Yet, her debut in the 1955 Kannada film Mahakavi Kalidasa, directed by K. R. Seetharama Sastry, showcased a raw and captivating talent. Paired alongside Honnappa Bhagavathar, she portrayed her character with such authenticity that critics immediately noticed her potential. The film, based on the life and poetry of Kalidasa, featured several Sanskrit shlokas, which Saroja Devi recited with poise and clarity—a rare feat for a debutante.
From that very first film, it was evident that B. Saroja Devi possessed the emotional depth and grace that would soon catapult her to national fame.
Rising to Stardom in Kannada Cinema
While male actors like Dr. Rajkumar, Uday Kumar, and Kalyan Kumar dominated the Kannada silver screen, B. Saroja Devi managed to carve a powerful space for herself. Her performances weren’t just limited to being the hero’s love interest; she brought strength and substance to every character she portrayed. Her role in Amarashilpi Jakanachari (1964), the first Kannada film in color, remains iconic. As Manjari, she added emotional weight and elegance to the story, particularly in the unforgettable dance sequence “Nillu Nee Neelaveni.”
She followed it up with memorable performances in films like Mallammana Pavada, Kittur Chennamma, and Bhagyavantharu. In Kittur Chennamma, she delivered a powerful line—“Kappa? Nimage yaake kodabeku naavu kappa?” (Why should we pay you a tribute?)—which resonated so deeply with audiences that it became a favorite at school events and fancy dress competitions.
Her portrayal of the queen Kittur Rani was both fierce and regal, exemplifying her ability to bring historical characters to life with authenticity and emotion.
Dominating South Indian Cinema: Tamil, Telugu, and Beyond
Saroja Devi’s influence wasn’t confined to Karnataka. She soon became a household name in Tamil and Telugu cinema as well. Her pairing with Tamil megastar M.G. Ramachandran (MGR) proved to be legendary. Between 1958 and 1966, the duo delivered 26 consecutive blockbusters. Films like Thirudathe (1961), Thaai Sollai Thattadhe (1961), and Enga Veetu Pillai (1965) cemented their status as one of Indian cinema’s most beloved onscreen pairs.
The Tamil audience fondly nicknamed her “Kannadatta Painkili,” which translates to “Kannada’s Nightingale,” a testament to her charm and graceful performances.
In Telugu cinema, she made her debut with Panduranga Mahatyam in 1957 and went on to act in numerous mythological and folklore films. Titles like Jagadeka Veeruni Katha, Seetharama Kalyana, and Prameelaanjeneyam showcased her versatility and elegance. She often starred alongside legends such as N. T. Rama Rao and Akkineni Nageswara Rao. Her roles in Rahasyam and Daagudu Moothalu are still fondly remembered by Telugu film lovers.
Even in Bollywood, she left her mark with films like Paigham, Preet Na Jaane Reet, Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya, Opera House, and Sasural—holding her own in an industry that was often dominated by Northern heroines.
An Actress with Artistic Depth
Beyond her beauty and charm, Saroja Devi brought a classical touch to cinema. A trained Bharatanatyam dancer and accomplished stage singer, she added depth to the characters she portrayed through expressive facial movements and graceful dance routines. Film critic and journalist Sreedhara Murthy highlighted her performance in Rathnagiri Rahasya, where a brief appearance in the song “Yavvanave Ee Yavvanave” left a lasting impact.
“She didn’t just perform songs—she embodied them,” said Murthy. “She brought emotion, rhythm, and authenticity in a way that only a trained artist could.”
Her acting was often described as natural yet profound. She seamlessly transitioned from mythological dramas to social narratives, portraying both regal characters and everyday women with equal finesse.
Breaking Barriers and Redefining Stardom
In an era when female actors were often relegated to ornamental roles, Saroja Devi commanded the same level of stardom and salary as her male counterparts. Following her success in Tamil cinema, producers in Karnataka reportedly considered her “too costly” to afford—a mark of how high her stature had risen.
Despite this, she returned to Kannada cinema in the later stages of her career, taking on impactful character roles in films like Bhagyavantharu, where she played a supportive wife to Dr. Rajkumar’s character. Her ability to evolve with time ensured she remained relevant and respected throughout her career.
Film historian K. Puttaswamy once said, “She had the royal face to fit any period drama and the expressive range to make characters believable. Whether it was a mythological goddess or a modern-day woman, she owned the role completely.”
A Guiding Light for Future Generations
National Award-winning actress Tara credits Saroja Devi as a mentor and a source of inspiration. “She would always encourage women to be independent and fight for their rights in the industry,” Tara once shared. Many female actors who followed in her footsteps acknowledge her as a pioneer who paved the way for stronger, more independent female characters in South Indian cinema.
Actor-politician Sumalatha Ambareesh, a contemporary icon, recalls her humility. “Despite being such a huge star, Saroja Devi never carried herself with airs. Her warmth and simplicity were her true strength,” she remarked.
Honours and Lifetime Recognition
Saroja Devi’s contributions didn’t go unnoticed. She was honored with the Padma Shri in 1967 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992 for her service to Indian cinema. She also received the Kalaimamani Lifetime Achievement Award, the Dr. Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award, and the NTR National Award twice—in 2001 and again in 2009.
In 2008, on the occasion of India’s 60th Independence Day, she was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Government of India, adding another feather to her illustrious cap.
An Enduring Legacy
Over her 55-year-long career, B. Saroja Devi worked with nearly every legendary actor of her time—Dr. Rajkumar, MGR, Sivaji Ganesan, Gemini Ganesan, N.T. Rama Rao, and Akkineni Nageswara Rao, to name a few. Her peers included other leading ladies like Jayalalithaa, Savitri, Anjali Devi, and Vanisri. But it was Saroja Devi’s ability to adapt, evolve, and lead from the front that made her truly stand out.
Her Kannada blockbusters like Sri Krishna Rukmini Satyabhama, Paapa Punya, Babruvahana, Chiranjeevi, and Devasundari still evoke nostalgia. Her dialogue delivery, her expressions, and her dance sequences continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.
Even after she transitioned to character roles, she remained a respected figure in Indian cinema—someone whose presence alone brought gravitas to any film she was part of.
Remembering a Legend
B. Saroja Devi’s passing marks the end of an era, but her cinematic contributions will continue to shine brightly in the annals of Indian film history. She was a pioneer who brought strength, elegance, and grace to the silver screen. She broke barriers, challenged stereotypes, and emerged as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring actors, particularly women, across the country.
From Kannada to Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi, her legacy transcends linguistic and regional boundaries. She will forever be remembered not just as Kannada cinema’s first female superstar, but as one of Indian cinema’s greatest treasures.