Malayalam cinema mourns the loss of veteran actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma, who passed away at the age of 79 on Friday. Ponnamma, known for her unforgettable portrayal of mothers in countless films, breathed her last at a private hospital in Kochi. She had been undergoing treatment for age-related ailments for several months.
The news of her passing sent shockwaves through the Malayalam film industry, with tributes pouring in from fellow actors, directors, and fans alike. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed his deep sorrow, recognizing Ponnamma’s significant contributions to the world of cinema and theatre.
“I express my profound grief over the passing of Kaviyoor Ponnamma, who won the hearts of Malayalis through her roles as a mother. Her long artistic career was not limited to cinema alone, but extended to theatre and television as well,” stated the Chief Minister’s Office. He added, “With her passing, an illustrious chapter in the history of Malayalam cinema and theatre has come to an end. However, she will remain in the hearts of Malayalis through her memorable characters. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family and friends during this difficult time.”
Minister for Cultural Affairs Saji Cherian also joined in mourning Ponnamma’s demise, remembering her as an actress who captivated audiences with her iconic mother roles.
Ponnamma’s journey to stardom began as a singer, transitioning into acting through theatre. She went on to grace the silver screen in over a thousand films, becoming a household name in Kerala. Her remarkable career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the Malayalam film industry.
Her notable films include “Asuravithu,” “Velutha Kathreena,” “KarakanaKadal,” “Theerthayathra,” “Nirmalyam,” “Chenkol,” “Bharatham,” “Santanagopalam,” “Sukrutham,” and many more. Ponnamma also lent her voice as a playback singer in eight films and appeared in over 25 television series.
She was known for playing the mother to many prominent actors, including Sathyan, Madhu, Prem Nazir, Soman, Sukumaran, Mammootty, and Mohanlal. Beyond her mother roles, she showcased her versatility by portraying a diverse range of characters, including negative roles.
Ponnamma’s dedication to her craft was evident in her prolific filmography, which included even producing the movie “Meghatheertham.” Her funeral will be held tomorrow, with public viewing scheduled at the Kalamassery Municipal Town Hall.
The passing of Kaviyoor Ponnamma marks the end of an era in Malayalam cinema. Her remarkable talent, her dedication to her art, and her ability to touch hearts through her performances will be deeply missed. She leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of actors and audiences alike.
