The Malayalam film industry is mourning the loss of actor and production controller Kannan Pattambi, who passed away at the age of 62. The veteran film professional died on Sunday night in Kozhikode, Kerala, while undergoing treatment for a kidney-related ailment at a private hospital.
Brother Major Ravi Announces the Demise
The news of his passing was confirmed by his elder brother, renowned filmmaker and actor Major Ravi, through a heartfelt Facebook post on Monday morning. In a message written in Malayalam, Ravi shared the somber news with the world.
"My dear brother, Kannan Pattambi, who was a film production controller, passed away at 11:41 PM last night," Ravi wrote. He further announced that the funeral would be held at their family home in Njangattiri, Pattambi, at 4 PM on Monday. The post concluded with a tribute: "My younger brother, Kannan Pattambi, has left for his heavenly abode. Om Shanti."
A Prolific Career in Mollywood
Kannan Pattambi enjoyed a multifaceted career in the Malayalam film industry, working both in front of and behind the camera. He was widely recognized for his frequent collaborations with two major figures: his brother Major Ravi and superstar Mohanlal.
His work with Major Ravi, a former Indian Army officer turned filmmaker, included significant projects like the 2007 film Mission 90 Days, starring Mammootty. The film was based on Ravi's personal experiences related to the investigation following the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
However, Pattambi's most notable contributions came through his association with Mohanlal. He served as both an actor and production controller on several of the superstar's blockbuster films. His filmography includes:
- Pulimurugan (2016): The Vysakh-directed action thriller where Pattambi worked as a production controller. The film made history as the first Malayalam movie to cross the Rs 100 crore mark at the box office.
- Kandahar (2010): A period war drama directed by Major Ravi, starring Mohanlal and featuring Amitabh Bachchan. The film was based on the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814.
- Karmayodha (2012) & Kurukshetra (2008): Other major action films that featured the trio of Pattambi, Ravi, and Mohanlal.
An Enduring Film Legacy
Beyond these high-profile projects, Kannan Pattambi built a respectable acting career spanning 23 films. His roles showcased his versatility across genres. Some of his notable acting credits include the Mammootty-starrer Black (2004), the comedy Vettam (2004), the fantasy thriller Odiyan (2018) starring Mohanlal, and the recent mystery thriller 12th Man (2022), also featuring Mohanlal.
His dual expertise as a skilled production controller and a reliable actor made him a valued and respected figure behind the scenes of many landmark Malayalam films over the past two decades. The industry has lost a dedicated professional whose work was integral to the success of numerous cinematic ventures.
The passing of Kannan Pattambi marks the end of an era for his family and colleagues in Mollywood. His contributions, particularly in managing the complex logistics of major productions and his on-screen presence, will be remembered by fans and film fraternity members alike.
