Savitri (actress)

Savitri Actress

Savitri 2011 stamp of India

Savitri Ganesan (born Nissankara Savitri; 6 December 1935 – 26 December 1981) was an iconic Indian film actress, playback singer, dancer, director, and producer known for her works primarily in Telugu cinema and Tamil cinema. She is often referred to as "Mahanati" (great actress) and "Nadigaiyar Thilagam" (pride of actresses) in the South Indian film industry. Savitri's legacy as a pioneering female superstar in Indian cinema has left an indelible mark, making her one of the most celebrated and influential actresses in the history of Indian cinema.

Early Life

Savitri was born in Chirravuru, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, India, into a Telugu-speaking family. From a young age, she showed an interest in dance and acting, which led her to pursue a career in films. Her acting career began at the tender age of 12, when she played a minor role in the film Agni Pariksha (1940). However, her breakthrough came with the film Samsaram (1950), where she played the lead role, marking the beginning of a legendary career.

Career

Savitri's career spanned over three decades during which she appeared in more than 200 films in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi. Her portrayal of strong, resilient women in films like Maya Bazaar (1957), Missamma (1955), Pasamalar (1961), and Mooga Manasulu (1964) won her critical acclaim and a massive fan following. Her ability to breathe life into her characters, coupled with her expressive eyes and natural acting style, made her a favorite among audiences and critics alike.

Personal Life

Savitri married Tamil actor Gemini Ganesan in 1952, which was a significant event in her life. The couple had two children, a daughter, and a son. Despite her successful career, Savitri's personal life was fraught with challenges, including her tumultuous marriage and struggles with alcoholism.

Death and Legacy

Savitri's health began to decline in the late 1970s, and she passed away on 26 December 1981, at the age of 46, due to complications related to diabetes and alcoholism. Her death marked the end of an era in South Indian cinema. However, her legacy continues to live on through her films and the countless actors she has inspired. In 2018, her life and career were celebrated in the biographical film Mahanati, which received critical acclaim and introduced her story to a new generation of viewers.

Filmography

Savitri's extensive filmography showcases her versatility as an actress. Some of her most notable films include:

• Maya Bazaar (1957)
• Missamma (1955)
• Pasamalar (1961)
• Mooga Manasulu (1964)
• Karnan (1964)

Awards and Honours

Throughout her career, Savitri received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to Indian cinema, including several state awards and the prestigious Rashtrapati Award for her performance in Chivaraku Migiledi (1960).

See Also

• Telugu cinema
• Tamil cinema
• Gemini Ganesan
• Mahanati