Will B. Saroja Devi Be Honored with State Rites?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- B. Saroja Devi will receive state honors at her final rites.
- She had a significant impact on Indian cinema spanning nearly seven decades.
- She collaborated with many legendary actors throughout her career.
- Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and actors.
- She passed away at the age of 87.
Bengaluru, July 15 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has declared that the esteemed Indian actress B. Saroja Devi will receive state honors during her final rites, showcasing the government's respect for her contributions.
After paying his tributes to the actress in Bengaluru on Tuesday, CM Siddaramaiah instructed officials to prepare the necessary arrangements.
Reflecting on their interactions, he mentioned how Saroja Devi consistently engaged with others in a warm and affectionate manner. “She had a towering personality. I have seen many of her films, where she starred alongside the Kannada cinema icon Dr. Rajkumar in acclaimed movies such as 'Mallammana Pavada', 'Kittur Rani Channamma', 'Bhagyavantaru', 'Babruvaahana', and 'Nyayave Devaru',” he stated.
The news of Saroja Devi's passing has left the film industry in mourning. She began her acting career at a young age and remained active for nearly seven decades, initially known as 'Abhinava Saraswati'.
“She was a remarkable actress who gained recognition not only in Kannada cinema but also in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi films. She performed alongside legendary actors like Dilip Kumar, Rajendra Kumar, MGR, NTR, Nageswara Rao, and Sivaji Ganesan,” Siddaramaiah remarked.
“Every character she portrayed was vibrant, and she led a disciplined personal life. Her contributions to the Kannada film industry are invaluable, and her passing is a significant loss for the industry. May her soul rest in peace, and I hope her family finds the strength to cope with this loss,” he added.
The final rites for Saroja Devi will take place in her hometown, Dashavara, near Channapatna, close to Bengaluru. Her body will be transported in an open vehicle, allowing the public to pay their respects in the towns of Ramanagara and Channapatna, as shared by her son Gowtham.
She will be laid to rest following the traditions of the Vokkaliga community, he added.
Veteran South Indian actress B. Saroja Devi, a recipient of prestigious Padma awards, acted in over 200 films spanning Kannada, Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu cinema. She passed away at her residence in Bengaluru on Monday.
At the age of 87, she was celebrated as 'Abhinaya Saraswati'. Saroja Devi was honored with the Padma Shri in 1967 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992.