Thousands gathered in Kerala's North Paravur to bid farewell to Salim Kumar, a 57-year-old Malayalam cinema actor who passed away due to long-standing health issues. Kumar, a recipient of a liver transplant, was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary artery disease, and sepsis with multi-organ dysfunction.
The actor's mortal remains were kept for public homage at the Town Hall in North Paravur, where thousands, including actors and politicians, paid tribute to the gifted actor.
Kumar's journey into the performing arts began as a mimicry artist in the early 90s, and he eventually made his debut in the film Ishtamanu Nooru Vattam in 1997. He gained recognition for his role in Sathyameva Jayathe in 2000 and went on to become a permanent fixture in comedy films in the early 2000s.
However, Kumar showed his versatility as an actor by taking on lead roles in films like Perumazhakkalam, Adaminte Makan Abu, and Achanurangatha Veedu, earning him several awards, including the National Film Award and Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor in 2010.
Salim Kumar's demise leaves behind a giant void in Malayalam cinema, but his legacy as a rare talent who could adapt to any character and make audiences laugh and cry will be remembered for years to come.
