Kannada industry veteran Leelavathi dies at 85, PM Modi mourns ‘true icon of cinema’
Leelavathi passed away. She was 85.
According to a report by the Deccan Herald, she was admitted to a private hospital in Nelamangala on the outskirts of Bengaluru. She was suffering from various ailments pertaining to old age.
Upon her death, her son Vinod Raj told a leading daily, “I am now left alone. Thankfully Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D K Shivakumar got her admitted to the hospital."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X, to mourn the late actress. Describing her as a “true icon of cinema,” he remarked that she showcased her versatility through a lot of diverse roles.
“Saddened to hear about the passing of the legendary Kannada film personality Leelavathi Ji. A true icon of cinema, she graced the silver screen with her versatile acting in numerous films. Her diverse roles and remarkable talent will always be remembered and admired. My thoughts are with her family and admirers. Om Shanti,” reads his post.
Who Was Leelavathi?
In a career spanning more than six decades, the actress has starred in more than 600, films, out of which 400 were in Kannada. She began her career as a member of Mahalinga Bhagavathar's Sri Sahitya Samrajya Drama Company troupe. She made her acting debut in the 1958 mythological drama ‘Bhakta Prahlada’. However, she shot to prominence as a leading lady with the 1960 historical drama ‘Rani Honnamma’. Some of her notable works include, Bhakta Kumbara’, ‘Santha Thukaram’, ‘Bhatka Prahlada’, ‘Mangalya Yoga’, ‘Mana Mechchida Madadi’ etc.
She was two times the recipient of the National Award.
