Manipur: Renowned Padma Shri Awardee Ratan Thiyam Passes Away at 77 in Imphal

IMPHAL: Manipur's renowned theatre personality and Padma Shri awardee Ratan Thiyam passed away in Imphal on Wednesday at the age of 77. "Thiyam died at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences at around 1.30 am on Wednesday after a prolonged illness," a state government official said.

“It is with deep sorrow that I express my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam, a true luminary of Indian theatre and an esteemed son of Manipur. His unwavering dedication to his craft, his vision, and his love for Manipuri culture enriched not only the world of theatre but also our very identity. His work carried the soul of Manipur, echoing its stories, its struggles, and its beauty,” the former Manipur CM said.

Taking to X, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “A leading light of the Theatre for Roots movement, Ratan Thiyam dedicated his life to bring indigenous theatre and art practices to the global stage.”

“A Padma awardee, his productions were rich in both talent and messaging. He was a brilliant ambassador of the rich culture of Manipur and the North East and was able to use art as vehicle to convey people’s emotions and aspirations. My deepest condolences on his demise,” Sarma further added.

The Manipuri theatre icon took Manipuri theatre to the national stage. He set up Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal in 1976 and was the director of the National School of Drama from 1987-88.

ALSO READ: Manipur’s traditional flavours get a modern twist

ALSO WATCH: