Saroja Devi to Be Laid to Rest with Full State Honours: Karnataka CM

Speedy Summary

• Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah paid tributes to legendary South Indian actress B Saroja Devi, who passed away at 87 due to age-related illness in Bengaluru on July 14, 2025.
• State honours will be accorded at her cremation. Her last rites are scheduled for July 15, 2025, in her native village Dhashavara, Channapatna taluk, Mandya district.
• Siddaramaiah described her death as a significant loss to the film industry and praised her nearly seven-decade-long contributions across Kannada, Telugu, Tamil and Hindi cinema.
• Recognized as ‘Abhinaya Saraswati,’ she worked with iconic actors such as M G Ramachandran, N T Rama Rao, Shivaji Ganesan, Rajkumar and others.
• The Chief Minister recalled meeting the actress multiple times and watching some of her notable films like kittur Rani Chennamma, Nyayave Devaru, among others.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The demise of B Saroja Devi marks the end of an era for Indian cinema renowned for its diversity across languages. Her extensive contribution over nearly seven decades not only shaped kannada filmdom but resonated through Telugu, Tamil and Hindi industries. The State Government’s decision to honor her with state honours highlights the cultural significance she carried beyond entertainment; representing values of versatility and inspiration.

Her legacy reminds India of its rich cinematic history spanning regional boundaries during a time when technology was limited yet artistry flourished-a testament to Saroja Devi’s profound impact on audiences nationwide. While this is indeed a momentous loss for the industry and fans alike, it also serves as an chance for posterity to reflect upon how icons like her bridged linguistic divides through thier craft-vital in fostering unity amid India’s cultural multiplicity.

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