Malayalam Cinema Icon Salim Kumar Cremated With State Honours In Kochi

Renowned Malayalam actor and National Award winner Salim Kumar was cremated with full state honours at his residence, 'Laughing Villa,' in Chittattukara, Ernakulam, on June 8, 2026. The 57-year-old actor passed away following a cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment for chronic liver and kidney ailments at a private hospital in Kochi. Known initially as a mimicry artiste with the Kalabhavan troupe, Kumar successfully transitioned into cinema, becoming a beloved household name across Kerala for his impeccable comic timing and later for his profound dramatic depth in films like *Adaminte Makan Abu*.

Tributes have poured in from across the political and cinematic spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi expressed their condolences, highlighting Kumar's contribution to Indian cinema. Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan described the actor as a 'brother' and a family member, while the film fraternity, including Mammootty and Dileep, shared emotional memories. Beyond the screen, Kumar was celebrated as the 'ultimate meme king' in Kerala’s digital culture, where his witty dialogues and satirical expressions remained alive even during his periods of ill health and absence from the silver screen.

In a separate development for the Indian political landscape, AICC functionary and Karnataka leader Suraj Hegde passed away due to cardiac arrest at the age of 55, with Rahul Gandhi calling it an 'irreparable loss' for the Congress party. Additionally, the international acting community is mourning the sudden death of 33-year-old Chinese actor Jin Ze, who was found at his Hangzhou residence. These losses mark a somber week for both the entertainment and political sectors in India and abroad, as fans and colleagues reflect on the legacies of these figures.