Salim Kumar, one of Malayalam cinema’s most recognisable comic and character actors, died in Kochi on Saturday after suffering a cardiac arrest.
He was 56. The actor had been undergoing treatment for multiple health complications and had reportedly been on ventilator support before his death.
His mortal remains were later taken home, and he was cremated in the compound of his residence on June 7 with full state honours.
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Deeply saddened by the passing of veteran actor Shri Salim Kumar Ji. Over the course of a distinguished career, he made a mark with his versatility and memorable performances across a wide range of roles. My thoughts are with his family and countless admirers in this hour of…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 7, 2026
A statesman's farewell, delivered with grace
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among those who paid tribute.
In a post on X, he said Kumar had “made a mark with his versatility” and noted that his career was marked by memorable performances across a wide range of roles.
Modi also expressed condolences to Kumar’s family and admirers, calling the actor’s passing a moment of grief for those who followed his work.
Hon’ble Governor Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar condoled the sad demise of Shri Salim Kumar, acclaimed actor and National Award winner.
— Kerala Governor (@KeralaGovernor) June 7, 2026
"My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family and loved ones. May his soul attain Mukti." pic.twitter.com/etRwBYhmi2
Kamal on Kumar's cultural impact
Filmmaker Kamal, who worked with Salim Kumar on several films, recalled the actor’s range and influence beyond comedy.
Speaking to TOI, he said, “His comedy scenes and dialogues continue to trend on social media,” adding that several words and phrases popular in everyday Malayali conversation came from Kumar’s performances.
Kamal also said Kumar should never be remembered only as a comedy actor, describing him as a performer who moved easily between humour and more layered roles.
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A journey penned in laughter and acclaim
Kamal traced Kumar’s rise from mimicry stages to mainstream cinema and said the actor had once told him he wanted to take on serious roles as well.
Kumar made his film debut in 1997 with Ishtamanu Nooru Vattam before becoming a popular presence in Malayalam films such as Kalyanaraman, Punjabi House, C.I.D. Moosa and Ee Parakkum Thalika.
He later earned wider critical acclaim for Achanurangatha Veedu and won the National Film Award for Best Actor for Adaminte Makan Abu in 2010. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he appeared in hundreds of films and remained active until recently, with his last projects including Azadi and Bha Bha Ba.
