Renowned theatre personality and Padma Shri awardee Ratan Thiyam passed away in his home state of Manipur early on Wednesday at the age of 77.
He was suffering from prolonged illness and admitted at Regional Institute of Medical Science in Imphal where he breathed his last.
"Thiyam died at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences at around 1.30 am on Wednesday after a prolonged illness," a state government official was quoted by PTI.
Who Was Ratan Thiyam?
Ratan Thiyam was the founder of the Imphal-based Chorus Repertory Theatre and he briefly served as the director of the New Delhi-based National School of Drama from 1987 to 1988.
A recipient of Padma Shri in 1989, Thiyam was known for blending traditional Manipuri art forms with contemporary craft, innovation and poetic narratives.
Reactions
The Manipur government condoled the death of Thiyam.
"With profound grief and deep sorrow, we mourn the passing of Padma Shri recipient and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee - Ratan Thiyam, a towering figure in Indian theatre and a cultural icon of Manipur," the government said in a statement.
"We join the artistic fraternity and the nation in remembering his extraordinary legacy. Heartfelt condolences to his family, disciples and admirers around the world," it said.
Former chief minister N Biren Singh also expressed his grief over the death of Thiyam, and said his work carried the soul of Manipur.
Singh, in a post on X, said, "It is with deep sorrow that I express my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Ratan Thiyam, a true luminary of Indian theatre and an esteemed son of Manipur." The former CM also said, "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."
Sahitya Academy in their official X handle wrote, "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."
