Kaviyoor Ponamma is one of the inevitable part of the Malayalam movies. Her 'mother roles' are very famous. As a child itself, Ponnamma started her art life doing stage shows. Her entry into the movie was in late 1950's. She has enacted as the mother of Prem Nazir, Sathyan to Mohanlal, Mammootty, Jayaram, Dileep etc. For her contribution Ponnamma has been honoured with Kerala State Award for Second Best Actress several times.