At 108, Vyttila native Philomena wishes to meet Mammootty, her birthday dream goes viral

Philomena, a 108-year-old resident of Vyttila, recently celebrated her birthday with a heartfelt wish — to meet Malayalam screen icon Mammootty in person.
The celebration, held at her residence, was organised by the local Palliative Care unit, which has been supporting her health journey for years. During the cake-cutting ceremony, Philomena, who has difficulty speaking, however expressed her long-cherished desire to see the megastar face-to-face.

A photo prominently displayed on Philomena’s wall—of her grandson posing with Malayalam superstar Mammootty—has only strengthened her long-standing wish to meet the actor in person. Johny, the youngest son of 108-year-old Philomena, fondly recalls the days when his parents—Philomena and her late husband Anthappan, an Excise official who passed away 30 years ago—would take their eight children to the theatres to watch the latest movies.

“I still remember how we would all sit on the ground with our legs folded to watch those shows,” Johny said. “Amma has always been an active, vibrant person.” Philomena first made headlines at the age of 106 when she received a pacemaker. Her doctor had insisted on the procedure, impressed by her otherwise good health. She eventually had it implanted. “She was fit and strong, and the doctor felt she would benefit from it,” Johny explained.

Philomena’s grandson, Rijoy—currently pursuing higher studies in New Zealand—took the photo with Mammootty during the filming of Big B in Fort Kochi back in 2007. Even at 108, Philomena remains full of life. She loves dressing up and wears jewelry whenever the occasion allows. “She used to always wear the traditional chatta and mundu, but lately we’ve been dressing her in kurtas and more modern outfits. She’s taken it all in good spirits,” Johny said with a smile.

A native of Paravoor, Philomena cherishes celebrating birthdays and special occasions with her large family. “She never misses a single celebration, especially festivals like Onam. I believe that’s her secret to long life—she genuinely enjoys the company of her children and grandchildren,” Johny said. “She is also incredibly kind and caring.”

Her simple daily diet includes a steamed nendran banana, rice and fish, raagi, and a cooked, mashed apple at night to aid digestion. Remarkably, she has no major health issues. Longevity seems to run in the family—her mother lived until the age of 104. While the family has yet to hear from Mammootty, they remain hopeful yet realistic. “He’s a very busy man, and we understand that. But yes, if he did meet our mother, it would definitely make her day,” Johny said.