Imphal: Ratan Thiyam, one of India’s most influential theatre directors and playwrights, died in the early hours of Wednesday at the age of 77 following a prolonged illness.
He breathed his last at 1:30 am at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped the course of modern Indian theatre.
A Padma Shri awardee (1989) and the winner of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987, Thiyam was a pioneer who masterfully fused traditional Manipuri art forms with contemporary theatrical expression.
With his innovative staging, political themes, and poetic narratives, Ratan Thiyam garnered international acclaim and redefined Indian theatre.
The Manipur government honoured Padma Shri Ratan Thiyam with the Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 for his contributions to the field of art and culture.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla expressed deep sorrow on the demise of renowned theatre personality and Padma Shri awardee Thiyam Ratan.
The Governor stated that his invaluable contribution to Manipuri theatre and culture will always be remembered.
“ Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and admirers,” Bhalla added.
Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also paid tribute, saying: “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.”
Taking to X, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “A leading light of the Theatre for Roots movement, Shri 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 added.
Ratan Thiyam, born into a family of artistes on January 20, 1948, at Nabadwip in Nadia district, West Bengal, grew up at Haobam Dewan Lane, Imphal. His father, Guru Thiyam Tarunkumar, was one of the most respected gurus of Classical Manipuri Dance, and his mother, Bilasini Devi, was a renowned dancer.
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A graduate in Dramatic Arts from the National School of Drama in New Delhi, Ratan Thiyam was a multifaceted artist. He worked as a designer, music composer, choreographer, lighting expert, costume designer, architect, and also as a playwright, painter, and poet.
