Tributes Pour In for Ratan Thiyam, Renowned Manipuri Theatre Icon
Ratan Thiyam Passes Away at 77
Ratan Thiyam, a celebrated theatre figure from Manipur and recipient of the Padma Shri award, passed away in Imphal on Wednesday at the age of 77.
Thiyam was recognized for his innovative plays that merged traditional Manipuri artistic expressions with contemporary elements. He founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal and held the position of director at the National School of Drama from 1987 to 1988.
Additionally, he served as the vice-chairperson of the Sangeet Natak Akademi.
In 1989, he was honored with the Padma Shri award.
The government of Manipur referred to Thiyam as a "towering figure in Indian theatre and a cultural icon of Manipur." They expressed their condolences to his family, students, and admirers globally.
Former Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, described Thiyam as a "true luminary of Indian theatre" and a cherished son of the state.
He remarked on social media that Thiyam's commitment to his art and his passion for Manipuri culture not only enriched theatre but also contributed to the identity of the region.
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… pic.twitter.com/20ZbKwGdZL
— N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) July 23, 2025
West Bengal's Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, conveyed her sympathies to Thiyam's family, calling him an "icon of Manipuri Theatre and a true legend who elevated Manipuri theatre to international recognition."
In her post on social media, she noted that his distinctive combination of tradition and innovation greatly enriched Indian performing arts and resonated globally.
Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, referred to Thiyam as a prominent figure in the Theatre for Roots movement, highlighting his lifelong dedication to showcasing indigenous theatre and art on the world stage.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh praised Thiyam as one of India's most significant cultural figures, emphasizing his strong political beliefs and his commitment to liberal, pluralistic, and secular Indian values. Ramesh noted that Thiyam remained bold and unyielding until the end, deeply concerned about the turmoil affecting his beloved state.
Ramesh's comments alluded to the ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities in Manipur, which has resulted in over 260 fatalities and displaced more than 59,000 individuals since May 2023, with further escalations in violence occurring in 2024.
President's Rule was enacted in February following Singh's resignation.