Malayalam National Award winning actor Salim Kumar was given the final rites befitting a State honour at his residence in North Paravoor, Kerala, today, Sunday. Relatives, film industry peers, political bigwigs, and hundreds of others came together to pay homage to the much loved actor, who breathed his last last night, Saturday, aged 56. The mortal remains of the actor was then kept for public viewing from 9 am to 1 pm today at Paravur Town Hall before being taken home for the burial ceremony at 3 pm.
Kerala Government Pays Tribute
The Kerala government, in an official press release, conveyed its grief over the passing away of the actor. The Kerala government recalled Salim Kumar as an accomplished artist who had established his reputation in Malayalam films through his excellent contribution.
To pay tribute, the government felt that police honours should be granted at the time of his funeral, and the government would bear all the costs incurred by the same. Wreaths were laid on behalf of the Government of Kerala, and the arrangements for police honours were made by the District Police Chief.
A Legacy of Versatility and Excellence
Salim Kumar is considered one of the best actors in Malayalam cinema, with a career that lasted over three decades, during which he acted in over 300 movies. Initially, he rose to fame due to his excellent comic roles, but later on in his career, he gained recognition because of his excellent portrayal in intense characters and roles.
പ്രമുഖ നടൻ ശ്രീ സലിം കുമാർ ജിയുടെ വിയോഗത്തിൽ അഗാധമായ ദുഃഖം രേഖപ്പെടുത്തുന്നു. വിശിഷ്ടമായ അഭിനയ ജീവിതത്തിൽ വൈവിധ്യമാർന്ന കഥാപാത്രങ്ങളിലൂടെയും അവിസ്മരണീയമായ പ്രകടനങ്ങളിലൂടെയും അദ്ദേഹം തന്റേതായ വ്യക്തിമുദ്ര പതിപ്പിച്ചു.ദുഃഖത്തിന്റെ ഈ വേളയിൽ എന്റെ ചിന്തകൾ അദ്ദേഹത്തിന്റെ കുടുംബത്തോടും…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 7, 2026
He achieved success when he bagged the National Film Award for the Best Actor for his outstanding performance in Adaminte Makan Abu. He has also been awarded the Kerala State Film Award for the Second Best Actor for his role in Achanurangatha Veedu and has been appreciated in movies such as Ayalum Njanum Thammil. Not only did he act, but he also directed films, with Karutha Joothan being one of them.
VD Satheesan Remembers a Friend and Colleague
Kerala Chief Minister VD Satheesan paid his last respects to the actor and shared heartfelt memories of their long-standing friendship. Speaking to the media, Satheesan remembered Salim Kumar not just as an accomplished actor but as someone who was like family to him. He said, “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.”
The Chief Minister also recalled the actor’s active involvement during election campaigns and his strong political beliefs. Reflecting on their close association, he added, “Whenever I contested elections, he was always with me, even cancelling his shooting schedules. It was Salim Kumar who inaugurated all my election committee offices. Salim Kumar was a person with strong political awareness. From his student days until his last breath, he remained a Congressman with unwavering political conviction.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Offers Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over Salim Kumar’s passing and acknowledged his contribution to Indian cinema. In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister wrote, “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 grief. Om Shanti.”
Final Days and Family
As per reports from the government of Kerala, Salim Kumar was taken to hospital in Kochi prior to his death. Salim Kumar’s surviving members of the family include his wife Sunitha and his two children Chandu Salim Kumar and Aaromal Salim Kumar. Salim Kumar leaves behind an unforgettable legacy in terms of his talent and remarkable performances in the field of Malayalam films.
ALSO READ: Tony Awards 2026 Nomination List: The Lost Boys And Schmigadoon! Lead Nominations With 12 Nods Each
