The demise of veteran actress B. Saroja Devi has left an indelible void in South Indian cinema. She was known for her on-screen chemistry with M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), and the actress won hearts in Kollywood through several acclaimed films.Saroja Devi’s Films with MGRSaroja Devi and MGR collaborated on classic films such as Nadodi Mannan (1958), Paasam (1962), Deiva Thai (1964), Enga Veettu Pillai (1965), and Anbe Vaa (1966).
Though their professional association came to an abrupt halt in 1967 due to a misunderstanding, the mutual admiration between the two stars remained intact. In an old interview with Deccan Chronicle in 2016, Saroja referred to MGR as her “anbu daivam” (lovable god). “When he introduced me in Nadodi Mannan, I was so naïve. He took care of me so well and used to give advice and tips while acting. After that, we acted together in several films. Without MGR, there’s no Saroja Devi!” she shared.Memories of MGR’s HomeShe also fondly recalled her time at MGR’s residence, Ramavaram Thottam. “I have gone to his house several times and had food there. The house used to always be cool with its red oxide flooring. There wouldn’t be a separate dining table, and instead, there would be a long bench. I consider it a temple and believe that MGR still lives there,” she stated. Why She Did Not RemarrySaroja also opened up about her decision not to remarry after losing her husband, Shri Harsha, in 1986. The couple tied the knot in 1967, and she did not marry again after his demise. “After my husband’s demise at a young age, a lot of people told me to remarry. I said ‘no’, and I couldn’t think of anyone else in his place. I was confident that I could manage my life without a male companion,” she said.Saroja Devi breathed her last on Monday (July 14) at the age of 87, at her home in Malleswaram, Bengaluru.
