Leelavathi, the veteran actress, remained a living archive of Kannada cinema. Her memory retained events from the industry's early days, chronicling incidents until yesterday. She understood the struggles to establish Kannada cinema, the industry's evolution, and the dynamics between artists and technicians. Even in her final days, though her memory may have faded, the light in her eyes, ever observant and recognizing, never dimmed. That light serves as a guiding torch for today's stalwarts.
She acted in over 600 films across Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam, with more than 400 in Kannada alone. Starting with her debut in the movie Maangalya Yoga in 1958, Leelavathi remained a prominent figure in Kannada cinema until 2009. Her performances in movies like Bhakta Kumbara, Mana Mecchida Hudugi, and Santa Tukarama showcased her impeccable acting prowess. In the realm of Kannada cinema, she stands out as an unparalleled legend, alongside numerous other talented artists. For decades, she reigned as a leading lady, adorned with state awards, Filmfare awards, and the Dr. Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award. Not just in acting, Leelavathi epitomized the ideal actress through her societal initiatives. Her dedication to setting up hospitals for the underprivileged and her involvement in various social causes, even in her advanced years, amplified the admiration and respect people held for her.
The legacy of Leelavathi, an actress who transcended mere acting, continues to inspire enduring affection from the masses, honouring her commitment to serving the downtrodden and her unwavering support in societal battles.
Childhood Days:
Originally from Belthangady in Dakshina Kannada district, Leelavathi, whose real name was Leela Kiran, was her parents' only daughter. Having lost her parents at a young age, Leelavathi grew up in her grandmother's house. She studied until the second grade at St. Joseph Elementary School but had to leave due to certain reasons. At 15, she developed an interest in tent cinemas set up near her house. Drawn to it, she never missed a show, even watching multiple times. She peeked behind the curtain, realizing actors were just playing roles and getting paid for it.
Beginning of Cinema Career:
Leelavathi moved to Mysuru at 16 to manage household financial struggles. Shankar Singh noticed her talent in the films "Chanchala Kumari" and "Nagakannike." In 1958, she acted in Subbayya Naidu's film "Bhakta Prahlada." She gained recognition through "Maangalya Yoga" and showcased her skills in "Dharma Vijaya" and "Ranadheera Kanteerava." However, "Rani Honnamma" truly earned her deserved recognition.
Difficult Path:
Leelavathi had no godfather in the film industry. Through sheer hard work and quick learning, she mastered the trade. Actors and directors of that time respected her immensely.
The Actress Who Worked Alongside Eminent Actors of the Southern Film Industry:
As a prominent figure, Leelavathi confidently held her ground. She played significant roles alongside stalwarts like Dr. Rajkumar, Anjali Devi, N.T. Rama Rao, Shivaji Ganesan, Gemini Ganesan, Vishnuvardhan, Shankar Nag, Kamal Haasan, Rajnikanth, V Ravichandran, and Chiranjeevi. They greeted her with utmost respect, love, and affection.
Final Days at Her Estate:
After leaving the film industry, Leelavathi lived in her estate home in Soladevanahalli near Nelamangala near Bengaluru for decades. She cultivated fruits and vegetables and cared for animals and birds. In social service, they established a primary health centre providing services to hundreds daily. She provided financial assistance to struggling artists, makeup artists, and technicians.
Realized Dreams:
Leelavathi aspired to help the poor. She established a primary health centre and a veterinary hospital. These initiatives fulfilled her long-held dreams.
Unfulfilled Dream:
However, her dream of constructing a solar plant for agriculture and education remained unfulfilled. Nonetheless, her son Vinod Raj's plan to realize this dream brings joy.
Movie names : Bhakta Prahalada, Kitturu Chennamma, Gaali Gopura, Karune Kutumbada Kanndu, Nanda Deepa, Sipayi Ramu, Bhakta Kumbara, Hombisilu, Kiladi Kittu, Olavina Udugore, Swathi Muttu, Kannadada Kanda.
Awards and Honours:
She won the Karnataka State Film Awards for her performance in Gejjepooje, Sipayi Ramu and Doctor Krishna. In 2008, she was conferred with Honorary Doctorate from Tumkur University while in 2006 she won the Best Supporting Actress Filmfare Award for 'Kanneeru'. She was awarded the Dr. Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award for the year 1999-2000.
QUOTES:
"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." - Narendra Modi, Prime Minister
"The news of the passing away of veteran Kannada film actress Leelavathi is painful. Last week, after hearing about her illness, I visited her home where I spoke to her son and asked about her health. My belief that Leelavathi, who entertained the audience with her mesmerizing performances for many decades, will recover and stay with us for more time turned false. I pray that the soul of the deceased may rest in peace and her family may find strength to bear this grief." - Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister
"The news of the passing away of veteran Kannada film actress Leelavathi is painful. I pray to God to rest her soul and give her family strength to bear the grief." - HD Devegowda, former Prime Minister