Manipuri Dancer Rinku Bhattacharya Das Distributes Relief to Displaced Families in Manipur
Rinku Bhattacharya Das's Humanitarian Efforts
Imphal, Jan 11: Renowned Manipuri dancer Rinku Bhattacharya Das has returned to Manipur after successfully raising funds in the United States to aid internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the ethnic strife in the region. She is set to distribute relief supplies to various relief camps.
During a press briefing at the Manipur Press Club on Sunday, Das shared that her initiative stemmed from the emotional toll of witnessing the hardships faced by displaced families during her visit to Manipur in July 2025.
Reflecting on her time at the relief camps, she expressed how the experience deeply affected her, motivating her to create a unique dance production that encapsulated the pain, trauma, and resilience of those impacted by the ongoing crisis.
“My visit to the relief camps last July allowed me to connect profoundly with the children and families there. Their narratives, struggles, and resilience resonated with me, compelling me to respond through my art,” she remarked.
The dance production was later showcased in the United States, featuring performances by American students under her direction.
Das noted that the performance garnered significant attention and helped rally support for the displaced families from Manipur.
“The production received very positive feedback. Many individuals expressed a desire to assist after learning about the situation through the performance, which resulted in donations for those residing in relief camps,” she explained.
She mentioned that the funds collected are currently being allocated to IDPs in relief camps throughout Manipur.
“This initiative was made possible thanks to the backing of my students, fellow artists, and numerous supporters. I am here now to ensure that the aid reaches those it was intended for,” she stated.
Currently pursuing a PhD in Manipuri Dance at Arizona State University, Das is a distinguished soloist and choreographer with extensive performance experience in both India and the United States.
She is also recognized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) as a solo dance artist, representing Indian culture on an international platform.
As the Director of Nrityajyoti Dance Academy, she trains students and promotes Indian classical dance overseas.
Through her efforts, Das aims to continue leveraging art as a means to raise awareness and foster solidarity for the displaced communities in Manipur.
“This is just a small contribution, but it comes from a place of profound connection. I believe that art has the power to unite people and open hearts during crises,” she concluded.