B Saroja Devi Death: Kamal Haasan Gets Emotional As He Pays Tribute To Veteran Actress; Says 'She Was Like Ano

Renowned South Indian actress B Saroja Devi passed away at 87 in Bengaluru. She had been dealing with age-related health issues. Kamal Haasan, who worked with her in the 1962 film "Parthal Pasi Theerum," expressed his sorrow through an emotional note. He described her as a mother figure and reminisced about their time together.

Kamal Haasan shared his heartfelt tribute on social media, writing in Tamil: "Wherever she saw me – at every stage of my life – she was there with a gentle finger on my cheek and a loving voice saying, 'My dear son.' She was like another mother to me, Saroja Devi Amma. An artist who lived beyond the boundaries of language and region, she has passed away."

Memorable Collaboration

Their collaboration began when Kamal Haasan was a child actor in "Parthal Pasi Theerum." Directed by A. Bhimsingh, the film featured stars like Sivaji Ganesan and Gemini Ganesan. Kamal played the role of Babu/Kumar alongside B Saroja Devi.

Saroja Devi's career took off with her debut in the Kannada film "Mahakavi Kalidasa" at just 17. Her performance earned her a National Award, marking her as a significant talent in Kannada cinema. She quickly became known as the first female superstar of Kannada films.

Rising Stardom

Her fame in Tamil cinema soared with the success of "Nadodi Mannan" in 1958. Starring alongside M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), the film's success solidified her status among top Tamil actresses. Despite marrying in 1967, she continued to be a prominent figure in Tamil films.

Kamal Haasan's tribute continued: "From the time of my second film, Parthal Pasi Theerum, so many unforgettable memories come flooding through my heart. My eyes brim with tears. A motherly soul who always wished to see me in a place of prominence. I bow down and bid her farewell."

B Saroja Devi's legacy is cherished by many for her contributions to Indian cinema across languages and regions. Her passing marks the end of an era for fans and colleagues alike.