Actor Salim Kumar has been hospitalised and is currently on ventilator support at a private hospital in Ernakulam. According to reports, the actor's condition remains critical. Salim Kumar had been battling liver-related ailments for several years and had undergone a liver transplant surgery in the past.

Beginning his career as a mimicry artist, Salim Kumar made his acting debut with Ishtamanu Nooru Vattam in 1997. The 2000s saw him establish himself as one of the most sought-after comedy actors in Malayalam cinema. He later earned acclaim for his performances in character-driven roles in films such as Perumazhakkalam, Achanurangatha Veedu, and Vaasthavam. He won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actor for Achanurangatha Veedu and the National Film Award for Best Actor for Adaminte Makan Abu.

Salim Kumar made his directorial debut in 2015 with Compartment. His second directorial venture, Karutha Joothan, earned him the Kerala State Film Award for Best Story. His last directorial outing, Daivame Kaithozham K. Kumar Akanam, featured Jayaram in the lead role.

On the acting front, Salim Kumar significantly reduced his workload during the 2020s owing to health issues. He was last seen in Baiju Ezhupunna's Koodothram.