PM Modi Mourns Demise of Veteran Actor Salim Kumar
National Award-Winning Malayalam Actor Passes Away at 56; Tributes Pour In Across the Country
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses grief over Salim Kumar’s demise
- National Award-winning Malayalam actor passed away at 56 in Kochi
- Known for both comic and serious roles across a career spanning over 300 films
- Film personalities, political leaders and fans pay tribute to the veteran actor
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 7th June: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of veteran Malayalam actor Salim Kumar, describing him as a versatile performer whose memorable roles left a lasting impact on Indian cinema.
In a message posted on X, the Prime Minister said Salim Kumar had distinguished himself through his versatility and remarkable performances across a wide range of characters during his illustrious career. He extended condolences to the actor’s family and admirers.
“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,” the Prime Minister said.
National Award-winning actor Salim Kumar passed away in Kochi on Saturday after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was 56. He had been admitted to a private hospital and was placed on ventilator support after his health deteriorated.
Widely regarded as one of Malayalam cinema’s most accomplished performers, Salim Kumar began his career as a mimicry artist and theatre performer before making a successful transition to films. Over a career spanning more than two decades, he appeared in over 300 films and earned acclaim for both comic and character roles.
His most celebrated performance came in the critically acclaimed film Adaminte Makan Abu, for which he won the National Film Award for Best Actor. He also received multiple Kerala State Film Awards during his distinguished career.
Following news of his demise, tributes poured in from across the film fraternity, political leaders and fans. Malayalam cinema stars including Mammootty, Dileep, Jayaram, Prithviraj Sukumaran and Manju Warrier expressed grief over the loss of one of the industry’s most beloved actors.
The actor is survived by his wife Sunitha and their two children. Funeral rites were scheduled to be held at his residence in North Paravur, Ernakulam district, after the public paid their last respects.
Salim Kumar’s death marks the end of an era in Malayalam cinema, where his ability to seamlessly move between humour and intense dramatic performances earned him admiration across generations of moviegoers.
