Malayalam cinema is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved and versatile performers, National Award-winning actor Salim Kumar, who died at 56 after a cardiac arrest.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the veteran actor, saying he 'made a mark with his versatility' and left a lasting impact on the industry.
Salim Kumar's career spanned over three decades, with hundreds of films and numerous honours, including multiple Kerala State Film Awards.
From mimicry stages to a household name, Salim Kumar's natural comic timing and ability to connect with audiences helped him stand out, eventually opening the doors to film.
He made his debut in 1997 with Ishtamanu Nooru Vattam, but it was during the 2000s that he emerged as one of Malayalam cinema's most popular comedians, with films like Kalyanaraman and Punjabi House cementing his place in popular culture.
However, Salim Kumar refused to be boxed into comedy, taking on more layered and emotionally demanding roles, proving he was far more than just a crowd-pleasing entertainer.
A major turning point came with Achanurangatha Veedu, earning him a Kerala State Film Award, and then in 2010, with Adaminte Makan Abu, his understated and deeply moving portrayal won him the National Film Award for Best Actor.
