Will we ever find such a mother in Malayalam cinema again? Jayaram reflects on Kaviyoor Ponnamma

Tributes are pouring in for veteran Malayalam actress Kaviyoor Ponnamma, who passed away after undergoing treatment for age-related ailments.

Actor Jayaram expressed his deep sadness over the demise of Ponnamma, with whom he has shared the screen as a son in many films.

"I didn't know that she was unwell. I had tried calling to invite her to Chakki's (Jayaram's daughter Malavika) wedding, but the call did not connect. It was later that I found out she had been lying sick," he told Mathrubhumi.

"Ponnamma Chechi (Ponnamma) was originally meant for my mother's role in Aparan—the first film I acted in. However, when she informed us of her difficulties, that role was taken over by Sukumari Chechi (the late actress Sukumari). At that time, it felt a bit sad. I’ve talked to Chechi (Ponnamma) about it later. From Jatahakam to many other films, she had been a wonderful mother to me," he said.

Noting that Ponnamma was a mother who always stood by him, Jayaram asked, "Will we ever find such a mother in Malayalam cinema again?"

Ponnamma breathed her last at the age of 79 on Friday at a private hospital in Kochi. She had been admitted to the hospital due to age-related ailments for several months.