Sat Sep 21 07:22:25 UTC 2024: ## Malayalam Cinema Mourns the Loss of Veteran Actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma
**Kochi, India -** The Malayalam film industry is in mourning following the passing of veteran actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma on Friday evening at a private hospital in Kochi. The 80-year-old actress, known for her iconic portrayals of maternal characters, succumbed to cancer after a six-decade-long career.
Ponnamma’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the Malayalam film industry. She was a beloved figure, particularly for her numerous on-screen portrayals of Mohanlal’s mother in over 50 films. The superstar actor took to Facebook to express his heartfelt condolences, describing her as a mother figure both on and off screen. “Many of our movies stand as a testament to the fact that a son is always a son to his mother,” he wrote.
Other prominent figures in the Malayalam film industry also shared their grief and tributes. Mammootty, another prominent Malayalam actor, posted a picture of Ponnamma kissing him on the cheek. “Dearest Ponnamma Chechi, May your soul rest in peace,” he wrote.
Actor and MLA Mukesh recalled his early days in the industry, stating that he was fortunate to act as her son in his very first film. He also noted that she was the first heroine of Kalidasa Kalakendra. “She cannot be replaced,” he posted.
Renowned actress Revathy highlighted Ponnamma’s remarkable journey, starting her career at a young age and acting for over 65 years. “Her smile and warmth will always be remembered. My salutations to her,” she said.
Ponnamma, who began her career at just 20 years old, made her mark playing mother to renowned actors Sathyan and Madhu in the 1965 film “Thommente Makkal,” paving the way for a career primarily focused on maternal roles.
She leaves behind a legacy of over 700 films, her enduring portrayal of motherly figures forever etching her name in the annals of Malayalam cinema. Her body will be kept at the Kalamassery Municipal Townhall on Saturday for the public to pay their respects, followed by a cremation at her residence in Aluva.
First Piper 