Veteran Malayalam actor Kaviyoor Ponnamma died at a private hospital in Kochi on Friday. She was 80. Ponnamma had been undergoing medical treatment for some time. With an illustrious career spanning seven decades, she worked in over 700 films. She was largely known for playing an on-screen mother, and gave many iconic performances in that capacity.
She bagged State Awards four times in her career for her performances as a supporting actress. She worked with actors like Mohanlal, Mammootty, and Prem Naseer, among others. According to Manorama, she played mother to Mohanlal in over 50 films. Ponnamma was married to late filmmaker Mani Swami. She is survived by her daughter Bindu, who is married to a professor at the University of Michigan in the US.
Mourning her death, Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan took to his X and wrote: “An important chapter in Malayalam cinema comes to a close with the passing of Kaviyoor Ponnamma, who embodied the essence of motherhood on screen for decades. Her effortless portrayals of Malayali women have left an indelible mark on our collective memory. Heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and all those who cherish Malayalam cinema.”
An important chapter in Malayalam cinema comes to a close with the passing of Kaviyoor Ponnamma, who embodied the essence of motherhood on screen for decades. Her effortless portrayals of Malayali women have left an indelible mark on our collective memory. Heartfelt condolences… pic.twitter.com/obEkqtezMq
— Pinarayi Vijayan (@pinarayivijayan) September 20, 2024
Ponnamma started her career as a singer. She was first approached by music director Devarajan to sing for plays when she was just 12. She eventually took up acting in the theatre, and went on to become one of the leading actresses of Kerala People’s Arts Club (KPAC). She debuted in cinema at the age of 14. She is known for her roles in Asuravithu, Velutha Kathrina, Cross Belt, and Nellu, among others.
(With inputs from PTI)
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