Salim Kumar, the National Award-winning Malayalam actor renowned for his versatility and warmth, passed away on June 6, 2026, in Kochi at the age of 56. He had been battling liver-related health issues for several years and was admitted to a private hospital in Kochi, where his condition worsened, leading to ventilator support. ([gulfnews.com](https://gulfnews.com/entertainment/south-indian/malayalam-actor-salim-kumar-national-award-winner-dies-at-56-1.500565850?utm_source=openai))
**Early Life and Career**
Born on October 10, 1969, in Chittattukara, Ernakulam, Salim Kumar began his career in mimicry before transitioning to acting. He appeared in approximately 300 films, earning critical acclaim for his performances in both comedic and serious roles. His portrayal in “Adaminte Makan Abu” earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor in 2010. ([gulfnews.com](https://gulfnews.com/entertainment/south-indian/malayalam-actor-salim-kumar-national-award-winner-dies-at-56-1.500565850?utm_source=openai))
**Health Struggles and Passing**
Salim Kumar had been battling liver-related ailments for several years and had undergone a liver transplant surgery in the past. He had previously spoken publicly about his struggles with liver cirrhosis, clarifying that the condition was hereditary and not linked to alcohol consumption. ([cinemaexpress.com](https://www.cinemaexpress.com/amp/story/malayalam/news/2026/Jun/06/national-award-winning-malayalam-actor-salim-kumar-passes-away-at-56?utm_source=openai)) Despite his ongoing health challenges, Salim Kumar had continued to remain active in public life. During the recent Kerala Assembly election, Kumar openly supported the Congress-led UDF, appearing alongside its leaders on several occasions and criticizing the LDF leadership. ([newindianexpress.com](https://www.newindianexpress.com/malayalam/2026/Jun/06/malayalam-actor-salim-kumar-hospitalised-on-ventilator-support?utm_source=openai))
**Tributes from the Film Industry**
Following his passing, tributes poured in from the Malayalam film industry. Prithviraj Sukumaran expressed his condolences on Instagram, stating, “Farewell Salim etta. Thank you for the memories.” ([cinemaexpress.com](https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2026/Jun/06/salim-kumar-passes-away-prithviraj-dileep-mammootty-vinayan-and-more-mourn-veteran-actors-death?utm_source=openai)) Mammootty shared his deep sadness about Salim’s demise, underscoring the late actor’s versatility: “Salim, you laugh and make others laugh, think and make others think, and occasionally cry and make others cry. Now, you only make me cry.” ([cinemaexpress.com](https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2026/Jun/06/salim-kumar-passes-away-prithviraj-dileep-mammootty-vinayan-and-more-mourn-veteran-actors-death?utm_source=openai))
**Survived by Family**
Salim Kumar is survived by his sons, Chandu and Aromal. His death marks a significant loss to Malayalam cinema, where he was celebrated for his exceptional talent and contributions to the industry. ([cinemaexpress.com](https://www.cinemaexpress.com/malayalam/news/2026/Jun/06/salim-kumar-passes-away-prithviraj-dileep-mammootty-vinayan-and-more-mourn-veteran-actors-death?utm_source=openai))
This article is AI-generated content. Please verify the information independently before taking any action based on this article.
