Kaviyoor Ponnamma Passes Away at 79

Veteran Malayalam actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma, known for her iconic mother roles, passed away at the age of 79 on September 20 in Kochi. She had been undergoing treatment for stage four cancer since May and her condition had worsened over recent weeks. Ponnamma’s career spanned over six decades, featuring in more than 700 films and earning multiple Kerala State Film Awards. Her contributions to cinema were lauded by industry stalwarts like Mohanlal and Mammootty, who expressed deep sorrow at her passing. Tributes poured in from various quarters including Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who noted that her death marks the end of an era in Malayalam cinema. Her funeral will be held on September 21, with public homage scheduled at Kalamassery Municipal Town Hall.