Malayalam actor, writer and comedian Salim Kumar, 56, died of cardiac arrest on June 6 and was cremated with state honors at his home in North Paravur, Ernakulam. The National Award-winning star’s body was kept at Paravur Town Hall for public homage, as family, colleagues, political leaders and fans gathered to bid farewell to the beloved performer.
On June 6, Malayalam actor, writer and comedian Salim Kumar passed away at 56 due to a cardiac arrest. He was surrounded by the presence of his family members, political figures, colleagues, and admirers, the National Award-Winning actor was cremated with state honors at his home in North Paravur, Ernakulum district in Keralam.
Prior to his funeral at his residence, Kumar's body was kept at the Paravur Town Hall between 9am to 1pm on Sunday to allow the public to pay their love and respect .
Numerous political leaders also paid emotional tributes to the veteran actor. During a press conference, Kerala CM V.D. Satheesan addressed the public saying, "Actor Salim Kumar had a face and expressions that Malayalis can never forget. I have lost someone who was like a brother to me. Since I came to Paravur, I have shared a deep bond with him and his family." He also remembers Kumar as a "deeply connected soul, fearless in his political beliefs," and someone he is "proud to say he stood with Congress."
PM Narendra Modi and Shashi Tharoor also took to X to mourn the actors' passing. PM Modi expressed that he is "deeply saddened" by Kumar's passing. "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 grief. Om Shanti," he said. Tharoor said "I had met him a couple of times and found him just as delightful as in his many film roles. A real talent and a wonderful human being."
In 2010, Kumar won the National Film Award for Best Actor for Adaminte Makan Abu, and also received the Kerala State Film Award for Second Best Actor for his 2006 drama Achanurangatha Veedu. With a career spanning over three decades, Kumar acted in over 300 movies and was one of the most loved and celebrated personalities in Malayalam cinema.