Actor Tiny Tom responded to the criticism he received after becoming emotional during the funeral of veteran actor Salim Kumar. The actor said many people mocked him without knowing the long and meaningful friendship they shared over several decades.Tiny Tom has been the target of several online trolls in recent years. One of the most discussed incidents occurred after Salim Kumar’s funeral, where his emotional reaction drew criticism on social media.As reported by Reporter website, peaking at Maharaja’s College, the actor explained why the moment affected him so deeply.
Tiny Tom says he genuinely became emotional
During the promotional event for the upcoming film ‘Ottam Thullal’, actor Binu Thrikkakkara performed an imitation of Salim Kumar. The moment brought back memories for Tiny Tom, who spoke about their long association.He said, “I genuinely became emotional. There used to be a bench there. Around this time every day, he would come, sit there and smoke a beedi. That’s how our relationship began. It was a friendship of nearly 30 years. People may not know any of that. Many trolled me because I cried when Salimettan’s body was placed on the funeral pyre. But we lived as close friends. We entered mimicry together and competed in university competitions. Back then, Salimettan, Pakru and I would regularly finish first, second and third. Losing someone with whom I shared such a friendship was heartbreaking.”
Tiny Tom recalls their early years together
Tiny Tom opened up about the years they spent together in mimicry and the memories they created before entering the film industry.He added, “I visited him in the hospital several times, hoping he would recover and return. After work, he would come to Maharaja’s College to study.”According to the actor, he never expected the friendship to end so suddenly. He remained hopeful about Salim Kumar’s recovery until the very end and continued visiting him during his treatment.
A friendship built through mimicry and college competitions
Tiny Tom explained that his friendship with Salim Kumar began long before either of them became established actors. They performed together in mimicry shows and also took part in university-level competitions.He recalled that he, Salim Kumar and Pakru frequently secured the top three positions in those events. The actor said those years created a lasting bond that remained strong throughout their lives.Tiny Tom made these remarks during the promotions of ‘Ottam Thullal’, directed by G. Marthandan. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on July 24.
