Ponnambalam is famous for portraying villainous roles in not only Tamil cinema but also in most other Indian languages. He also won hearts by participating in 'Bigg Boss 2' hosted by Kamal Haasan.

For the past few years, the veteran actor has been afflicted by kidney disease and was hospitalized. Several celebrities including Kamal and Rajini helped him financially. Now Ponnambalam through a video message has stated that he had undergone a kidney transplant and is well now.

Ponnambalam has heartily thanked Megastar Chiranjeevi for giving rupees two lakhs for the transplant and has said that he will never forget him throughout his life. He has further added that like the Lord Hanuman whose name he has Chiranjeevi will be blessed with a long life.