Ukhrul, July 23: Ratan Thiyam, a globally acclaimed Indian playwright and theatre director, a luminary and a proud son of Manipur, passed away in the early hours of Wednesday at around 1:30 AM at RIMS Hospital in Imphal. He was 77.
During the height of the ongoing conflict between the Meitei/Meetei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur, Ratan Thiyam was widely regarded, cutting across communities and by experts alike, as one of the few figures with the moral authority and cultural stature to help defuse tensions and foster dialogue. However, despite the hope he inspired, that role never came to fruition.
Ratan Thiyam was the first graduate from Manipur to complete his training at the National School of Drama (NSD) in New Delhi in 1974. He gained international recognition for his direction in acclaimed theatrical productions such as “Uttar Priyadarshi,” “Hey Nungshibi Prithivi,” and “Chinglon Mapan Tampak Ama.”
In 1987, his groundbreaking play “Chakravyuha” earned him the prestigious Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh International Festival, further cementing his status as a visionary in global theatre.
Honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in Direction (1987) and the Padma Shri (1989), he later received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (2012), its highest accolade.
Notably, in 2001, he returned his Padma Shri in a symbolic protest against the violence in Manipur, reflecting his deep commitment to peace.. Throughout his life, he remained a vocal advocate for unity, consistently urging religious and political leaders to come together in times of crisis.
Sahitya Akademi, a autonomous body committed to nurturing and promoting Indian literature in 24 of the country’s officially recognized languages under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, took to X, “A recipient of the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987, Thiyam was a towering figure in Indian theatre and a pioneer of the “theatre of roots” movement. His contributions blended tradition with modernity, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of India.
The office of Manipur Governor through the Raj Bhavan Manipur X handle “expressed deep sorrow on the demise of renowned theatre personality and Padma Shri awardee Thiyam Ratan.” The condolence message from Ajay Kumar Bhalla added, “his invaluable contribution to Manipuri theatre and culture will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and admirers.”
Former Manipur’s chief minister N. Biren Singh paid his tribute as he extended his condolences on the passing of Ratan Thiyam, whom he described as a visionary of Indian theatre whose work deeply enriched Manipuri culture and identity. His legacy lives on through his art and the many lives he touched. “Sad to know that a very distinguished playwright, director, writer, scholar, leading personality of “Theatre of Roots” and founder of Chorus Repertory Theatre, Sri Ratan Thiyam has passed away. He was one of the few directors who popularized ancient Indian traditions & touched millions of hearts through his works. His plays have been staged as well as adapted across the world. He will be missed in the Indian performance and literary circles,” wrote N. Biren Singh on X.
Meghalaya chief minister, Conrad K Sangma while sending his condolences to the bereaved family, wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam , a visionary who redefined Indian theatre by blending contemporary form with the cultural soul of Manipur. Through his art, he not only elevated the cultural identity of his homeland but left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian performing arts. His legacy will continue to inspire.”