Salim Kumar, celebrated Malayalam actor and filmmaker, was cremated with State honors Sunday,June 7,2026, in his hometown North Paravur, Ernakulam district. The 57-year-old star died from cardiac arrest while receiving treatment in Kochi just day before.
Funeral happened at Laughing Villa, his residence in Chittattukara . Sons Chanthu and Aromal lit funeral pyre at 3:45 p.m.,honoring actor's wish to skip religious rituals. Grief poured from fans,colleagues,political figures who came to pay respects .
Throughout day,thousands of mourners visited North Paravur Municipal Town Hall,where Salim Kumar's body was on view for public from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. District Collector G. Priyanka honored him with wreath on behalf of State government .
Among those attending funeral were Chief Minister V.D . Satheesan,who shared close bond with actor,and other prominent figures like All India Congress Committee general secretary K.C. Venugopal, Deputy Speaker Shanimol Osman, Minister for Culture P.C. Vishnunadh. Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden and actor-turned MLA Ramesh Pisharody also present,with many of Salim Kumar's long-time friends from film industry.
Notable personalities such as Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi,MPs Benny Behanan, Kodikkunnil Suresh, and former MLA K.N. Unnikrishnan paid last respects. Actors Jayaram, Navya Nair, Shweta Menon, Renji Panicker,and Dileep among many mourning beloved actor's loss .
Despite being out of State,renowned actors Mohanlal and Mammootty expressed condolences on social media. Political leaders, including Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan and former Minister P. Rajeeve, shared sympathies,showing Salim Kumar's far-reaching impact.
Salim Kumar started as mimicry artist,then moved to film, known for comedic talent and depth as actor. His journey from humble beginnings to national fame left mark on Malayalam film industry…
