Sat Sep 21 04:51:04 UTC 2024: ## Veteran Malayalam Actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma Passes Away at 79
**Kochi, Kerala:** Renowned Malayalam actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma, known for her versatile roles and memorable portrayals of mothers in countless films, passed away on Friday evening at the age of 79. She had been battling stage 4 cancer since May 2023 and was admitted to the Lisie Hospital on September 3rd.
Ponnamma, who began her acting career in theatre at the tender age of 14, went on to act in over 1,000 films. She was widely recognized for her compelling performances as the mother of prominent actors like Prem Naseer, Sathyan, Madhu, Soman, Mohanlal, and Mammootty. She played Mohanlal’s mother in over 50 films, leaving a lasting mark on Malayalam cinema.
Her versatility extended beyond maternal roles as she successfully donned diverse characters, even negative ones, leaving an indelible impression on the Malayalam film industry. She also produced a film, “Meghatheertham,” and was a four-time recipient of the State Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Ponnamma’s contributions to theatre were equally notable. She was a prominent figure in KPAC, Pratibha Arts Club, and Kalidasa Kalakendram, captivating audiences with her performances in plays like “Puthiya Aakasham Puthiya Bhoomi,” “Doctor,” “Althara,” and “Janani Janmabhoomi.”
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed his condolences through a Facebook post, acknowledging Ponnamma’s significant contributions as a theatre artist and film actor. Her funeral will be held at her residence in Aluva, Ernakulam, at 4 pm on Saturday. The public can pay their respects at the Kalamassery Municipal Town Hall from 9 am to 12 noon.
Ponnamma’s passing marks the end of an era in Malayalam cinema, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable performances and an unmatched dedication to her craft. She will be remembered as a true icon, forever cherished by generations of moviegoers.
First Piper 