Theatre maestro Ratan Thiyam passed away Wednesday morning at Regional Institute of Medical Sciences in Imphal after battling prolonged illness. The 77-year-old artist earned recognition as a Padma Shri recipient in 1989 and received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987. Thiyam established Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal during 1976 and later directed the National School of Drama from 1987 to 1988. His artistic vision combined traditional Manipuri cultural forms with contemporary theatrical techniques.
Government officials across Northeast India mourned the loss of this cultural icon. Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla praised Thiyam's lasting contributions to regional theatre and culture. Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh described how the artist's work captured Manipur's essence through stories and struggles. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma acknowledged Thiyam's role in redefining Indian performing arts. The theatre pioneer received numerous honors throughout his career and received lifetime achievement recognition from Manipur government in January 2025.
Government officials across Northeast India mourned the loss of this cultural icon. Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla praised Thiyam's lasting contributions to regional theatre and culture. Former Chief Minister N Biren Singh described how the artist's work captured Manipur's essence through stories and struggles. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma acknowledged Thiyam's role in redefining Indian performing arts. The theatre pioneer received numerous honors throughout his career and received lifetime achievement recognition from Manipur government in January 2025.
