MUMBAI : Leelavathi, a veteran Kannada actress, passed away on Friday. She reportedly passed away from age-related illnesses. She was eighty-five. After an extended illness, veteran Kannada actor Leelavathi passed away on Friday at a private hospital in Nelamangala, close to Bengaluru. She had respiratory complications, which led to her being hospitalized. Vinod Raj, her actor son, is the only person living.

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Along with political figures, several influential figures from South India's film industry expressed their condolences for Leelavathi's death. On Saturday, there will be final rites.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on social media to express his sincere sympathies after learning of the tragic news. PM Modi’s tweet reads, "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."

Leelavathi as an actor has featured in over 600 films, including Telugu and Tamil productions. Famous classics such as Bhakta Kumbara, Santha Thukaram, Bhakta Prahlada, Mangalya Yoga, and Mana Mechchida Madadi are among her noteworthy works.

Following her passing, fans also honored Leelavathi with tributes. "Leelavathi was one of the finest actors. RIP," on X, a social media user posted. Another remarked, "Will surely miss her seeing on the screen." The Karnataka government has awarded Leelavathi the Dr. Rajkumar Lifetime Achievement Award.

Leelavathi made her film debut in Bhakta Prahlada (1958) after working for a while in theater. Mangalya Yoga was her Kannada film debut as a heroine (1958). Beginning her career in the film industry in the early 1960s, Leelavathi remained in high demand as an actor until the late 1980s. She acted in almost 400 Kannada films. The talented actress appeared in several different genres, including historical, social drama, family drama, and more.

Leelavathi made her notable debut in the historical drama Ranadheera Kanteerava, starring Dr. Rajkumar. Afterward, she and the Kannada actor developed a strong on-screen relationship while starring in popular films like Gaali Gopura, Kulavadhu, Veera Kesari, Bhagya Devathe, and others.

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