Veteran Malayalam actor and National Award winner Salim Kumar passed away at the age of 56 in a Kochi hospital on Saturday, June 6, 2026. Known for his versatile acting, he earned praise for his comic timing as well as powerful performances in intense roles.
He is survived by his wife, Sunitha, and their two children Chandu and Aaromal. For the unversed, Chandu Salimkumar, has also made a name for himself in the film industry as an actor.
Who is Salim Kumar’s son Chandu Salimkumar?
Like his father, Chandu Salimkumar has also worked in the film industry and made a name for himself in Malayalam cinema. He was recently seen in Lokah Chapter One: Chandra alongside Kalyani Priyadarshan. Moreover he has also featured in blockbuster film Manjummel Boys.
He will be next seen in Chidambaram’s directorial Balan: The Boy.
About Salim Kumar’s death
Veteran actor Salim Kumar has passed away after developing health complications. He was admitted to a private hospital in Kochi on Saturday and was on ventilator support. Family sources told news agency PTI that the actor was undergoing treatment for pneumonia.
He had also undergone a liver transplant a few years ago. The final rites of actor Salim Kumar will be held later in the evening at his residence, Laughing Villa, in North Paravur, with police honours.
Salim Kumar’s film career
Salim Kumar made his film debut in 1997 with Ishtamanu Nooru Vattam, directed by Siddique-Shameer. However, before entering into showbiz, he was already active in Kerala’s entertainment scene through theatre and TV comedy programmes.
He gained wide recognition in the state’s mimicry circuit, performing extensively across Kerala and abroad as part of Kalabhavan before forming his own troupe. He later became a known face on Malayalam TV through various comedy shows.
His real big break came with 2000 film Satyameva Jayathe, which made him a popular name among audiences. Apart from acting, Kumar has also tried his luch in filmmaking and directed few films including Daivame Kaithozham K Kumarakanam, Karutha Joothan and Compartment.
Also Read: Salim Kumar, Malayalam actor and National Award winner, dies at 56
