The Malayalam film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Salim Kumar, who passed away on Saturday, June 6, at a private hospital in Kochi. The National Award-winning actor was 56. According to reports, he had been undergoing treatment for a liver-related illness and suffered a heart attack. News of his death has triggered an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues and political leaders across Kerala.According to the hospital reported by The Hindu, Salim Kumar was brought in around 2.50 a.m. after developing a fever and experiencing breathing difficulties. He was immediately placed on ventilator support. The actor had several underlying health conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic kidney disease requiring regular haemodialysis, coronary artery disease, and had previously undergone a liver transplant.In a medical bulletin issued later that night, the hospital stated, "He was initiated on ventilator support, antibiotics, dialysis and other life-saving measures. During the hospital stay, he suffered a cardiac arrest and despite maximum possible resuscitative measures, could not be revived."As tributes continue to pour in, one of Salim Kumar's final Instagram posts has resurfaced online and is being widely shared by fans. In the video, recorded during an appearance on Aurora Media, the actor spoke warmly about his journey in cinema, his late mother, and legendary Malayalam actor Murali, offering a glimpse into the memories he cherished most.A journey from mimicry stages to Malayalam cinemaBorn on October 9, 1969, in Chittattukara near North Paravur, Salim Kumar began his career as a mimicry artist. He performed with popular troupes, including Cochin Kalabhavan, where he developed the comic timing and stage presence that would later make him a star.His entry into cinema came with the 1996 film Ishtamanu Nooru Vattam. However, it was the 2000 blockbuster Thenkasipattanam that transformed him into a familiar face among Malayalam audiences.Over the next decade, Salim Kumar became one of the industry's most sought-after comedians. His performances in films such as CID Moosa, Meesha Madhavan, Kalyanaraman, Pandippada, Mayavi, Pulival Kalyanam and Thommanum Makkalum made him a household name. Many of his dialogues and comic scenes continue to circulate on social media as memes and cultural references even today.More than just a comedy starAlthough audiences initially embraced him for his humour, Salim Kumar later proved he was capable of far more than comedy.One of the first major turning points came with Achanurangatha Veedu, which earned him the Kerala State Film Award for Second Best Actor. The performance showcased a more restrained and emotional side of the actor.His most celebrated role arrived in 2010 with Adaminte Makan Abu. In the film, he played Abu, an ageing perfume seller whose lifelong dream is to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage. The moving performance won him the National Film Award for Best Actor and the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor, cementing his reputation as one of Malayalam cinema's finest performers.Success behind the camera as wellSalim Kumar also explored filmmaking during his career. He directed films such as Compartment, Karutha Joothan and Daivame Kaithozham K Kumar Akanam.His storytelling abilities were recognised when Karutha Joothan earned him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Story. Whether acting, writing or directing, he consistently sought projects that reflected social realities and human emotions.His final Instagram post strikes an emotional chordFollowing news of his death, many fans revisited his recent Instagram uploads. One particular video has attracted widespread attention.In the clip, Salim Kumar reflected on his early struggles, remembered his mother with affection, and shared stories about the late actor Murali. The conversation offered a deeply personal look at the man behind the celebrated screen persona, making the video especially poignant in the wake of his passing.Fans have flooded the comments section with tributes, remembering him not only as a gifted actor but also as a humble and thoughtful individual.Despite recurring health concerns in recent years, Salim Kumar remained active in public life. During Kerala's recent election campaign, he openly supported Congress leader V. D. Satheesan and participated in several campaign events across the state.He continued making public appearances even when his health appeared fragile. One of his last major appearances was at a civic reception organised for Satheesan on May 24.With a film career spanning more than 300 movies and over three decades, Salim Kumar leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. After news of his death was confirmed, a large number of people from different walks of life gathered at the hospital to pay their respects. His mortal remains will be taken to his hometown, North Paravur, on Sunday (June 7) for the public to offer their final tributes. The funeral will take place later in the evening.