Malayalam film producer K K Mohammad Ali was found strangled to death at his residence near Vazhakala on Saturday morning, police said.
Police suspect that the murder was committed after 2200 IST on Friday.
The front door of the house was found broken, the police said, adding they discovered the body on Saturday morning.
Ali's wife and children had gone to Kottayam two days ago to attend a family function.
Ali is said to have produced two films, including Bharatavu Udyogam.