B. Saroja Devi, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated actresses, captivated audiences for over seven decades with her expressive performances and regal screen presence. With a career spanning around 200 films across Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi cinema, she earned the title of the first female superstar of Kannada films. Her ability to portray diverse roles—ranging from romantic heroines to fierce historical figures—made her a beloved icon. Here are five of her most iconic films that showcase her remarkable talent and enduring legacy.
1. Nadodi Mannan (1958) – Tamil
Director: M.G. Ramachandran
Co-stars: M.G. Ramachandran, P. Bhanumathi, M.N. Nambiar
Why It’s Iconic:
Nadodi Mannan (The Vagabond King) was a landmark Tamil film that catapulted Saroja Devi to stardom. Directed by and starring M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), this historical drama doubled as a social commentary, blending action, romance, and political undertones. Saroja Devi played a pivotal role as a spirited woman caught in a tale of rebellion and love, showcasing her ability to balance grace with emotional depth. Her chemistry with MGR was electric, marking the beginning of their iconic on-screen partnership that resulted in 26 hit films. The film’s success, driven by its memorable songs like “Thottal Poo Malarum” and its grand storytelling, cemented her as a leading lady in Tamil cinema. Saroja Devi’s expressive performance, especially in romantic and dramatic scenes, made her a household name and set the stage for her prolific career.
2. Mahakavi Kalidasa (1955) – Kannada
Director: K.R. Seetharama Sastry
Co-stars: Honnappa Bhagavathar, B. Raghavendra Rao
Why It’s Iconic:
Saroja Devi’s debut film at the age of 17, Mahakavi Kalidasa, marked the arrival of a star in Kannada cinema. This mythological drama, based on the life of the legendary poet Kalidasa, showcased her natural talent and poise despite her young age. Playing the role of a celestial nymph, Saroja Devi brought an ethereal charm to the screen, blending innocence with emotional intensity. The film’s success established her as a promising talent and earned her the title of Kannada cinema’s first female superstar. Her graceful dance sequences, honed under her father’s encouragement, added authenticity to her performance, making this film a must-watch for those exploring her early work and the roots of her illustrious career.
3. Puthiya Paravai (1964) – Tamil
Director: Dada Mirasi
Co-stars: Sivaji Ganesan, M.R. Radha, Sowcar Janaki
Why It’s Iconic:
Puthiya Paravai (The New Bird) is a Tamil romantic thriller that remains one of Saroja Devi’s most celebrated films. Playing the role of Latha, a glamorous and enigmatic woman, she delivered a nuanced performance that balanced sophistication with vulnerability. The film, inspired by the Hollywood classic Chase a Crooked Shadow, featured her alongside Sivaji Ganesan, with whom she shared a remarkable chemistry in 22 hit films. Iconic songs like “Unnai Ondru Ketpen” and “Chittu Kuruvi,” picturized on Saroja Devi, became cultural touchstones, with her expressive acting and elegant sarees captivating audiences. Her ability to convey complex emotions in this suspenseful narrative earned her praise and inspired advice from her friend Jayalalithaa to “stay at the top” and avoid smaller roles, a testament to her commanding presence in this film.
4. Beti Bete (1964) – Hindi
Director: L.V. Prasad
Co-stars: Sunil Dutt, Jamuna, Mehmood
Why It’s Iconic:
Beti Bete, a Hindi family drama, highlighted Saroja Devi’s ability to shine in Bollywood alongside South Indian cinema. Playing the role of Lakshmi, a devoted sister and daughter, she brought warmth and relatability to a story about familial bonds and personal sacrifices. Directed by L.V. Prasad, the film explored themes of love and duty, with Saroja Devi’s heartfelt performance resonating with audiences across India. Her work opposite Sunil Dutt showcased her versatility, as she seamlessly adapted to the Hindi film industry’s narrative style while retaining her signature emotive depth. This film is a testament to her pan-Indian appeal and remains a standout in her Hindi filmography, making it essential viewing for fans of classic Bollywood dramas.
5. Kittur Chennamma (1961) – Kannada
Director: B.R. Panthulu
Co-stars: Rajkumar, M.V. Rajamma
Why It’s Iconic:
Kittur Chennamma is a historical drama that showcased Saroja Devi’s ability to portray strong, patriotic characters. Playing Rani Chennamma, the real-life queen of Kittur who resisted British colonial rule, she delivered a powerful and inspiring performance. Her portrayal of the fierce yet compassionate queen earned her widespread acclaim and contributed to the film winning the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Kannada in 1963. Saroja Devi’s commanding screen presence, coupled with her ability to convey both strength and vulnerability, made this role unforgettable. The film remains a cultural milestone in Kannada cinema, celebrating both her talent and the legacy of a heroic figure in Indian history.
Why These Films Matter
Saroja Devi’s contributions to Indian cinema go beyond her on-screen roles. Her ability to work across four major film industries—Tamil, Kannada, Telugu, and Hindi—while maintaining a streak of 161 consecutive films as a lead heroine from 1955 to 1984, is a world record. These five films highlight her range, from mythological and historical roles to romantic and dramatic ones, showcasing why she was adored by audiences and respected by peers like MGR, Sivaji Ganesan, and Dilip Kumar. Her performances, paired with her iconic fashion sense, particularly her sarees and hairstyles, influenced generations of fans. Whether you’re a cinephile or a newcomer to Indian cinema, these films offer a glimpse into the legacy of a true icon.
Sources: Information compiled from various web sources, including Wikipedia, The Hindu, and IMDb, for factual accuracy and context.
Last Updated on: Tuesday, July 15, 2025 8:15 pm by E Vivekanandha Goud | Published by: E Vivekanandha Goud on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 10:26 am | News Categories: Entertainment
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