Padma Bhushan awardee Mammootty expressed grief over the passing of Malayalam actor Salim Kumar, who died at 56. Mammootty shared a heartfelt message in Malayalam on social media, reminiscing about Salim’s ability to evoke laughter, thoughts, and tears. Salim Kumar, known for his comic timing and versatile acting, passed away on Saturday night at around 10:43 pm after battling health issues, including a previous liver transplant.
Kerala Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan also paid tribute to Salim Kumar, highlighting his multifaceted personality and political beliefs. Satheesan praised Salim as a fearless individual who could effortlessly switch between making people laugh and cry. Salim Kumar’s contribution to Malayalam cinema was immense, with iconic roles in films like ‘Meesa Madhavan’ and ‘Pulival Kalyanam’, which left a lasting impact on Kerala’s cultural landscape.
Salim Kumar’s legacy extends beyond comedy, as he garnered acclaim for his dramatic performances, notably in ‘Adaminte Makan Abu’, for which he received the National Film Award for Best Actor. His talent was recognized with multiple Kerala State Film Awards, and he later delved into directing and writing, showcasing his storytelling prowess. With a career spanning nearly three decades and numerous films, Salim Kumar transitioned from a beloved comedian to a distinguished character actor in Malayalam cinema.
