Actor Tiny Tom hit back at the criticism he received after he got emotional during veteran actor Salim Kumar’s funeral. The actor said many people made fun of him not 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 talked about incidents occurred after the funeral of Salim Kumar, where his emotional reaction drew criticism on social media.According to the Reporter website, which reached Maharaja’s College, the actor explained why the moment affected him so deeply.
Tiny Tom says he got really excited
During the promotional event of the upcoming film ‘Ottam Thullal’, actor Binu Thrikkakkara did an imitation of Salim Kumar. The moment brought back memories for Tiny Tom, who spoke of their long association.He said: “I was really moved. There used to be a bench. Around this time every day, he would come, sit there and smoke a beedi. That’s how our relationship started. It was a friendship of almost 30 years. Maybe people don’t know about it. Many people trolled me because I cried when Salimettan’s body was put in the mortuary. They used to mime together and compete in college competitions. Back then, Salimettan, Pakru and I regularly finished first, second and third. Losing someone I shared such a friendship with was heartbreaking.”
Tiny Tom remembers their early years together
Tiny Tom talked about the years they spent miming together and the memories they made before entering the film industry.He added: “I visited him in hospital several times, waiting for him to recover and come back. After work, I was going to study at Maharaja’s College.”According to the actor, he never expected the friendship to end so suddenly. She remained hopeful about Salim Kumar’s recovery till the end and continued to visit him during his treatment.
A friendship built through mimicry and university competitions
Tiny Tom explained that his friendship with Salim Kumar began long before either of them became established actors. They performed together in mime shows and also participated in university level competitions.He recalled that he, Salim Kumar and Pakru often 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 statements during the promotions of ‘Ottam Thullal’, directed by G. Marthandan. The film is slated to hit theaters on July 24.