R. Balasaraswathi Devi (1928-2025) Biography, Family

Quick Info

Profession	Playback singer, Actress
Nationality	Indian
Date of Birth	28/08/1928
Age	97 years (died on 15, Oct, 2025)
Birthplace	Venkatagiri, Madras Presidency, British India
Date of Death	15/10/2025

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Full Name	Raavu Balasaraswathi Devi
Famous for	Being first playback singer of Telugu cinema

Marital Status	Widow

Spouse	Sri Raja Rao Pradyumna Krishna Mahipati Surya Rao
Children	1 Son

Description	Raavu Balasaraswathi Devi emerged as a prominent figure in the music industry, known for her pioneering role as the first playback singer in Telugu cinema. She recorded her first solo gramophone record at the age of six, swiftly gathering fame as a child artist. In addition to her singing, she made significant contributions to South Indian cinema as an actress during the 1930s and 1940s. Balasaraswathi Devi's illustrious career spanned over nine decades, encompassing both playback singing and acting in multiple languages. Her notable recordings include hundreds of enduring songs, made in collaboration with many well-known composers. Alongside her musical endeavors, her contributions to radio as the first light music singer in All India Radio solidified her legacy. She received various accolades, such as the Ramineni Foundation Award and the YSR Lifetime Achievement Award by the Andhra Pradesh government.

Description

Raavu Balasaraswathi Devi emerged as a prominent figure in the music industry, known for her pioneering role as the first playback singer in Telugu cinema.
She recorded her first solo gramophone record at the age of six, swiftly gathering fame as a child artist.
In addition to her singing, she made significant contributions to South Indian cinema as an actress during the 1930s and 1940s.
Balasaraswathi Devi's illustrious career spanned over nine decades, encompassing both playback singing and acting in multiple languages.
Her notable recordings include hundreds of enduring songs, made in collaboration with many well-known composers.
Alongside her musical endeavors, her contributions to radio as the first light music singer in All India Radio solidified her legacy.
She received various accolades, such as the Ramineni Foundation Award and the YSR Lifetime Achievement Award by the Andhra Pradesh government.

1. Balasaraswathi Devi belonged to the distinguished Nidudavolu family, renowned in Telugu culture.
2. Her first significant role occurred when she was just eight, portraying Ganga in two acclaimed Telugu films.
3. She broadened her artistic horizons by working with major studios during her early career.
4. Her groundbreaking song recorded in 1943 marked a monumental shift in the Telugu film industry.
5. She was renowned for her ability to sing in multiple languages, showcasing her vast musical range.