Archive · 24 Jul 2025
Theatre Legend Ratan Thiyam Dies, Manipur's Cultural Icon
Ratan Thiyam, a famous theater director, passed away.
He was known for combining ancient traditions from Manipur with modern theater.
He studied at the National School of Drama and later became the chairperson.
Thiyam used his theater to tell stories and to protest against things he thought were wrong.
He created many plays and also returned an award to show his disagreement with the government's actions related to unrest in his home state.
His work brought Manipur's culture to the world.
Celebrated theatre personality Ratan Thiyam died in Imphal on July 23, 2025, at the age of 77.
He was a leading figure in the 'Theatre of Roots' movement and a Padma Shri awardee.
Thiyam served as the chairperson of the National School of Drama (NSD) from 2013 to 2017.
He founded the Chorus Repertory Company, integrating Meitei traditions into his work.
He returned his Padma Shri award in 2001 to protest government actions related to unrest in Manipur.
- Who
- Ratan Thiyam, a celebrated theatre personality.
- What
- Death of Ratan Thiyam, a prominent theatre personality.
- When
- July 23, 2025.
- Where
- Imphal, Manipur.
- Why
- No specific reason for death is mentioned.
Government Stance
Ratan Thiyam's View
Government's response to the unrest in Manipur.
Government Stance
Apathy towards the unrest.
Ratan Thiyam's View
N/A
- Died
- July 23, 2025
- Age
- 77
- Birthplace
- Nabadwip, Bengal
- Known For
- Integrating ancient theatrical traditions into contemporary context
- Awards
- Padma Shri, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
- Founded
- Chorus Repertory Company
- NSD Chairperson
- 2013-2017