Salim Kumar

Biography

Salim Kumar (10 October 1969 – 6 June 2026) was a celebrated Indian actor, comedian, mimicry artist, director, and writer who worked predominantly in Malayalam cinema. Born in Chittatukara, Kerala, he began his career as a mimicry artist and performer before becoming one of Malayalam cinema's most recognizable comic actors.

He gained wider recognition through films such as Satyameva Jayathe (2000) and Thenkasipattanam (2000), the latter becoming a breakthrough in his career. He subsequently became known for memorable performances in films including Pulival Kalyanam (2003), Achanurangatha Veedu (2005), Mayavi (2007), Chotta Mumbai (2007), Marykkundoru Kunjaadu (2010), Aadu (2015) and Karutha Joothan (2017).

Although he established himself through comedy, Salim Kumar demonstrated considerable dramatic range. His performance in Achanurangatha Veedu earned him the Kerala State Film Award for Second Best Actor, while his performance in Adaminte Makan Abu (Abu, Son of Adam, 2011) earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor. He also received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor and became the first actor to win Kerala State Film Awards in the categories of Best Actor, Second Best Actor, and Best Comedian.

Salim Kumar also ventured into filmmaking, directing films including Compartment (2015) and Karutha Joothan (2017). Across his career, he accumulated more than 300 acting credits and worked in comedy, drama, and character roles.

He died in Kochi on 6 June 2026, aged 56. He is remembered as one of Malayalam cinema's most versatile performers, capable of moving effortlessly from comic roles to serious and emotionally demanding characters.