Jayan Cherthala remembers Salim Kumar, says actor battled health issues for years
Kochi, June 7
Actor Jayan Cherthala remembered veteran Malayalam actor Salim Kumar following his death and spoke about his long career in cinema and the health issues he had been facing in recent years.
Speaking to ANI, Cherthala said that Salim Kumar had worked in more than 300 films and earned the love and respect of audiences through his performances over the years. He also shared that the actor had been battling health problems related to his internal organs for the last few years.
Recalling Salim Kumar's contribution to Malayalam cinema and the large number of people who gathered to pay their respects, Cherthala said, "He has acted in more than 300 movies... He was suffering from certain internal organ-related problems for the last 3 to 4 years... All the film fraternity people are here to give him respect..."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mourned the actor's death and paid tribute to his contribution to Indian cinema.
In a post on X, PM Modi 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."
Chief Minister V D Satheesan took to X to post, "He wasn't just the prince of laughter to me, Salim Kumar was a deeply connected soul, fearless in his political beliefs and proud to say he stood with Congress. A versatile genius who could make us laugh and cry with the same face. Malayalam cinema lost a legend, and I lost a brother."
A respected name in Malayalam cinema, Salim Kumar had a career spanning more than three decades and appeared in over 300 films. He first became popular for his comic roles before winning praise for his powerful performances in serious and emotional characters.
He won the National Film Award for Best Actor in 2010 for Adaminte Makan Abu. He also received the Keralam State Film Award for Second Best Actor for Achanurangatha Veedu and earned recognition for films like Ayalum Njanum Thammil and his directorial venture Karutha Joothan. According to information shared by the Keralam government, Salim Kumar was rushed to Amrita Hospital in Kochi on Saturday before his demise.
He is survived by his wife Sunitha and their two sons, Chandu Salim Kumar and Aaromal Salim Kumar.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Really sad news. Salim Kumar was more than just a comedian, he was a versatile actor who could handle any role with grace. I remember watching Ayalum Njanum Thammil and being amazed by his performance. But I feel the industry could have done more to support him during his health struggles. The tokenism of tributes after death doesn't hide the neglect during life. Still, may his soul rest in peace.
His journey from comedy to serious roles was inspiring. Salim Kumar showed that Malayalam actors could excel in both genres. The fact that he won a National Award for Best Actor speaks volumes. My thoughts are with his family during this tough time.
While I'm not from Kerala, I've always admired Salim Kumar's work after watching Adaminte Makan Abu. It's a powerful film and his performance was outstanding. It's sad to see another talented artist leave us too soon. RIP.
I grew up watching Salim Kumar's comedy scenes on TV. He had impeccable comic timing and could make anyone laugh with just his expressions. But his serious roles were equally brilliant. It's a big loss for Malayalam cinema. His family will be in our prayers 🙏
Salim Kumar's death is a reminder of how fragile life is. He entertained us for decades and yet, we never really asked if he was okay. The outpouring of grief now feels hollow when the industry often ignores artists until they pass away. That said, his legacy will live on through his incredible body of work. Om Shanti.
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