EntertainmentPosted at: Jun 7 2026 8:31AM


National Award-winning actor Salim Kumar passes away

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Kochi, June 7 (UNI) National Award-winning Malayalam actor Salim Kumar, celebrated for his exceptional versatility as both a comedian and character actor, passed away at a private hospital here late on Saturday night.
According to a medical bulletin issued by Amrita Hospital, 56-year-old Salim Kumar was admitted on Saturday with fever and shortness of breath. He had been undergoing treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic kidney disease requiring maintenance haemodialysis, coronary artery disease and had previously undergone a liver transplant.
Doctors diagnosed him with COPD exacerbation, pneumonia and sepsis with multi-organ dysfunction. Despite being placed on ventilator support and receiving intensive treatment, including antibiotics and dialysis, he suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away at 10.43 pm on Saturday.
He is survived by his wife Sunitha and two sons, Chandu and Aaromal. His mortal remains will be kept at Paravur Town Hall for public homage from Sunday morning before the funeral is held at his residence later in the day. Chief Minister VD Satheesan is expected to pay his last respects.
Born on October 10, 1969, at Chittattukara in Ernakulam district to Gangadharan and Kausalya, Salim Kumar rose from the world of mimicry and stage performances to become one of the most respected actors in Malayalam cinema.
After completing his studies at SNM College and Maharaja's College, he actively participated in youth festivals and mimicry competitions, winning first prize in mimicry at the MG University Youth Festival for three consecutive years. He later performed with renowned troupes, including Cochin Kalabhavan and Sagar, before entering the film industry.
Salim Kumar made his screen debut with ‘Ishtamanu Nooru Vattam’, but it was the 2000 blockbuster ‘Thenkasipattanam’ that transformed his career. His unique comic style and impeccable timing made him one of Malayalam cinema's most sought-after comedians.
Over a career spanning nearly three decades, he acted in around 300 films, delivering memorable performances in ‘Kalyanaraman’, ‘CID Moosa’, ‘Meesha Madhavan’, ‘Mayavi’, ‘Thilakkam’, ‘Pulival Kalyanam’, ‘Chathikkatha Chanthu’ and ‘Chess’. He also appeared in Tamil and Odia films.
While he first won audiences with comedy, Salim Kumar later established himself as a powerful actor capable of handling complex and emotionally demanding roles. His acclaimed performances in ‘Perumazhakkalam’, ‘Achanurangatha Veedu’, ‘Gramophone’ and ‘Adaminte Makan Abu’ earned him widespread recognition as one of Malayalam cinema's finest performers.
His portrayal of Abu in ‘Adaminte Makan Abu’ won him the National Film Award for Best Actor, a landmark achievement that cemented his place among India's most accomplished actors.
Beyond cinema, Salim Kumar was known for his outspoken nature and unwavering commitment to his principles. He earned respect across political and ideological divides for his independent views and insistence on fairness and equality.
His resignation from the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) in 2016, in protest against what he perceived as unequal treatment within the organisation, was widely seen as a reflection of his courage and integrity. Colleagues admired him for speaking his mind irrespective of status or influence.
Affectionately known as "Salimettan" in the film fraternity, he remained a beloved figure whose warmth, humility and sincerity endeared him to generations of artistes and audiences alike.
With his passing, Malayalam cinema has lost not only an outstanding actor but also a fearless and principled voice whose contributions to art and public life will be remembered for years to come.
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