Mon Jul 14 11:39:09 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:

**Bengaluru Mourns the Loss of Legendary Actress B. Saroja Devi at 87**

**Bengaluru, July 14, 2025** – Veteran actress B. Saroja Devi, a titan of South Indian cinema, passed away in Bengaluru on Monday at the age of 87. With a career spanning over seven decades and encompassing more than 200 films in Kannada, Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi, Devi was widely celebrated for her grace, talent, and enduring impact on the industry.

Often hailed as the first female superstar of Kannada cinema, the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan recipient captivated audiences with her nuanced portrayals and inspired fashion trends throughout the 1960s and 70s. Telugu movie enthusiasts will fondly remember her iconic appearance in the song ‘Chitapata chinukulu paduthu vunte’ from the 1964 film *Aathma Balam*, and her regal role in *Jagadekaveeruni Katha*.

Devi’s Telugu cinema debut came in 1957 with *Panduranga Mahatyam*, alongside legends NT Rama Rao and Anjali Devi. Her career also included notable roles in films like *Bhookailas*, simultaneously made in Kannada and Telugu, *Shakuntala*, *Sri Seetha Rama Kalyanam*, and *Sri Krishnarjuna Yuddham*.

While primarily recognized for her contributions to Tamil and Kannada cinema, Saroja Devi left an indelible mark on Telugu cinema with versatile performances, transitioning from period dramas to acclaimed social films like *Pelli Sandadi*, *Pelli Kanuka*, and *Daagudu Moothalu*. Her popularity was highlighted by a memorable incident during the filming of *Daagudu Moothalu*, when she tore a ligament during filming. Despite this, the producer refused to replace her, demonstrating her value and star power. At the time, she was reportedly paid the princely sum of ₹80,000.

B. Saroja Devi’s passing marks the end of an era, leaving a void in the hearts of countless fans and admirers across India.

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