Malayalam's 'Manavaalan' bids adieu; Public homage to end soon, body to be taken home

A talented artist who has earned his own place in Malayalam cinema- Minister Sunny Joseph

Chief Minister V D Satheesan reached Paravur Town Hall and paid his last respects

Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala expressed his condolences on the demise of actor Salim Kumar. Chennithala said that he had a very close personal relationship with Salim Kumar and that he had fondly recalled this loving relationship in many interviews. Salim Kumar, a staunch Congressman, was always proud of his political convictions. In his condolence message, Chennithala said that his demise is a great loss to the Malayalam film world and the Congress movement.

‘The demise of Salim Kumar is not just a loss to Malayalam cinema. He is one of the artists who proudly elevated Malayalam cinema to the great heights of Indian cinema,’ said Culture Minister P C Vishnunath.

Hours after the public viewing begins at Paravur Town Hall, a huge rush is witnessed there. Many people from the political and artistic circles have reached to pay homage.  

Body of Salim Kumar was brought to Paravur Town Hall. People can pay homage till 1 pm. He will be laid to rest at 3 pm.

He is very young. He was not that old at all. When I think about it, it brings immense sadness. Right now, I reminded a line from the film Mazhathullikkilukkam, in which we acted together. There was heavy rain all along the journey as we came here. At the end of that film, there is a dialogue: 'Rain is the joy of the soul.' That line came to my mind at this moment, Navya Nair offers condolences.

Salim Ettan is a great actor who proudly elevated Malayalam to Indian cinema. Therefore, the decision has been taken on the instructions of the chief minister to give him a funeral with all official honors. Personally, it is a great loss for all of us. He was a politically conscious artist who stood by his stand until the last moment,' said Cinema and Culture Minister P C Vishnunath.

Salim Kumar's body will be cremated with official honors.

‘Salim, you were someone who laughed and made others laugh, thought deeply and made others think, and at times cried and made others cry. Now all you do is make us cry. Your departure is an endless sorrow, my brother,’ says Mammootty.