Guwahati, July 23: Ratan Thiyam, one of the country’s most revered theatre directors and playwrights, passed away at the age of 77 after 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), Thiyam was a pioneer who masterfully fused traditional Manipuri art forms with contemporary theatrical expression. His visionary approach not only redefined Indian stagecraft but also brought global recognition to the aesthetics and philosophy of Manipuri performance traditions.
Artists, scholars, and admirers across the globe have mourned his passing away.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said Shri Ratan Thiyam , was 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” Sangma 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.”
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