THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Noted director Thampi Kannanthanam passed away in a private hospital in Kochi. He was under treatment in the hospital for several days.

He has directed 16 films, produced 5 films and written 3 films to date. He debuted as a director in 1983 with the film Thavalam. He has also acted in Itha Oru Theeram (1980), Attimari (1981), Madrasile Mon (1982), Thudarkatha (1991). He was most active during the period 1980-90. His most notable directorial films include Rajavinte Makan, Vazhiyorakazchakal, Bhoomiyile Rajakkanmar, Indrajaalam, Naadody, Chukkan, and Maanthrikam.

Thampi was born on 11 December 1953 as the sixth son of Baby Kannanthanam and Thankamma at Kanjirappally, Kottayam. He studied in MC seminary school and at St. Domenic College. He began his film career as an assistant director to Joshiy in the film Thavalam (1983). He is married to Kunjumol and the couple have two children, Aiswarya and Angel.