Savitri was an Indian actress known for her roles in Telugu and Tamil cinema, as well as in Malayalam, Hindi, and Kannada films. She is celebrated for her performances in over 250 movies, including “Mayabazar,” “Devadasu,” and “Missamma,” and earned the title of “Mahanati,” meaning the greatest of all actresses in Telugu cinema.
Personal and Family Life
Savitri was born on December 6, 1937, in Chirravuru, Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh, India. After her father died when she was a baby, her mother raised her and her sibling with the help of family. She showed an early interest in dance, which led her to perform in dance dramas as a child before moving into films.
Career
Savitri’s film career began in the early 1950s. She faced early challenges, including being replaced in a lead role due to nerves. However, she quickly rose to fame with significant roles in films like “Pelli Chesi Choodu” and “Mayabazar,” solidifying her reputation as a talented actress. Over the years, she received multiple accolades for her work, including the distinguished Rashtrapathi Award.
Death and Legacy
On December 26, 1981, Savitri passed away in Chennai after a lengthy battle with diabetes and hypertension, slipping into a coma for 19 months prior. Her legacy continues to live on, and she was honored posthumously with a commemorative postage stamp issued by the Government of India in 2011.
Filmography
Title | Release Date | Character |
---|---|---|
గుండమ్మ కథ | 1962-06-07 | Lakshmi |
Parisu | 1963-11-14 | |
మాయాబజార్ | 1957-03-27 | Sasirekha |
Kalasi Unte Kaladu Sukham | 1961-09-08 | Radha |
திருவிளையாடல் | 1965-07-31 | Goddess Parvathi in Different Disguises |
Kandhan Karunai | 1967-01-14 | Goddess Parvati |
நவராத்திரி | 1964-11-03 | Nalina |
Missamma | 1955-01-12 | Mary / Mahalakshmi |
Devadasu | 1953-06-26 | Parvati |
Kalathur Kannamma | 1960-03-15 | Kannamma |