Navigating through personal and professional challenges, Dr. Leelavathi has emerged as an unwavering pillar of strength. Over her four and a half decades in the cinema industry, Dr. Leelavathi has earned recognition for her outstanding acting, compassionate nature, and straightforward approach.
From earning a livelihood washing dishes to achieving a prominent position as a leading heroine, Dr. Leelavathi has endured numerous hardships, some of which linger in her memory to this day. Reflecting on life, she compares it to a train journey, acknowledging occasional delays but emphasizing the importance of avoiding derailment. In essence, Dr. Leelavathi’s life story is one of triumph against all odds, a testament to her resilience and an inspiration for others.
Hailing from Belthangady village in Dakshin Kannada, Leelavathi arrived in Mysore with hopes and dreams. Her journey began with a small role in Shankar Singh’s film ‘Naga Kannika,’ leading her to join the Mahalinga Bhagavathar team of the Sri Sahitya Samrajya Drama troupe. Although she started with minor roles in films like ‘Bhakta Prahallada,’ ‘Mangalya Yoga,’ ‘Dharma Vijaya,’ and ‘Ranadheera Kanteerava,’ it was from ‘Rani Honnamma’ onward that Leelavathi solidified her status as a leading heroine.
Demonstrating her acting prowess in films such as ‘Santha Thukaram,’ ‘Kantheradhu Nodu,’ ‘Kaivara Mahatme,’ ‘Gali Gopura,’ ‘Kanyarathna,’ ‘Kulavadhu,’ ‘Veera Kesari,’ ‘Mana Mechchida Madadhi,’ and others, Leelavathi showcased her competitive spirit. Even when she transitioned to supporting roles, her acting abilities continued to shine, earning her accolades in films like ‘Gejje Pooje,’ ‘Sipayi Ramu,’ and ‘Doctor Krishna,’ for which she received the state award.
In addition to her acting career, Leelavathi ventured into film production to establish her son Vinodraj in the Kannada cinema industry. Films such as ‘College Hero,’ ‘Nanjunda,’ ‘Kannadadha Kandha,’ ‘Shukra,’ and ‘Yaaradhu’ bear witness to her production endeavors.
In 2009, Tumkur University bestowed upon her an honorary doctorate, and in 1999-2000, she was honored with the Dr. Rajakumar award.
While her primary love was agriculture, Leelavathi transitioned from Chennai to Bangalore, residing in her farmhouse in Soladevanahalli with acres of land dedicated to crop cultivation. Not only did she establish a primary health care center in Solladevanahalli, Nelmangala Taluk, but she is also currently overseeing the construction of a veterinary hospital.
Today, the veteran actor Leelavathi passed away at a hospital in Nelamangala at the age of 85 after battling a prolonged illness. Her mortal remains will be available for public viewing at Ambedkar Stadium in Nelamangala.
