Jul 23, 2025
Ratan Thiyam was a legendary Indian theatre director, playwright, and artist from Manipur. He was known for fusing traditional Manipuri performance with modern, spiritual storytelling.
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Born in January 1948 in Imphal, Manipur, Thiyam trained at the National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi, later becoming its director. His roots in classical Indian theatre deeply influenced his vision.
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Thiyam became a key figure in the "Theatre of Roots", reviving Indian traditions while tackling modern issues. He drew from the Natya Shastra, Manipuri dance, and epics like the Mahabharata.
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In 1976, he founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal. The group is known for powerful stage design, music, and performances rooted in spiritual philosophy.
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Ratan Thiyamâs theatre blends myth, mysticism, and morality. His use of silence, light, music, and traditional martial arts creates unforgettable stagecraft.
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Notable plays include Chakravyuha, Andha Yug and Uttarpriyadarshi. All of these plays have been taken from ancient Indian texts.
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Notable awards to the name of Ratan Thiyam include: Padma Shri (1989), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Padma Bhushan (2012). His work has toured globally and influenced theatre worldwide.
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Ratan Thiyam is revered for preserving India's rich performance heritage while making it relevant today. He remains a torchbearer of Indian classical theatre in a modern voice.
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