Latest news with #RegionalInstituteofMedicalSciences
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Ratan Thiyam: A Visionary Who Revolutionized Indian Theatre
Guwahati: Born on Jan 20, 1948, at Nabadwip in West Bengal's Nadia district, Ratan Thiyam, recognised as one of India's greatest theatre innovators, grew up in Imphal, surrounded by art and art-making, which profoundly influenced his life and work. His father, Thiyam Tarunkumar, was one of the most respected gurus of classical Manipuri dance, while his mother, Bilasini Devi, was a renowned dancer. Thiyam passed away at 77 at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal at approximately 1:30am Wednesday. Along with KN Panikkar, BV Karanth, Habib Tanvir, Bansi Koul, and Jabar Patel, Thiyam, affectionately known as 'Oja' (teacher in Meiteilon), was a major pioneer of the "theatre of roots" movement, developed during the 1960s-1970s. This movement sought to reclaim and integrate Indian classical, folk, and indigenous performance traditions with modern sensibilities, a powerful strategy for redefining Indian cultural identity. A graduate of dramatic arts from the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD), Thiyam was not only a powerful stage director but also a complete theatre craftsman and creative visionary. He was a multifaceted genius — a designer, music composer, choreographer, lighting expert, costume designer, architect, playwright, painter, and poet, whose brilliance extended across nearly every element of the performing and creative arts. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 15 most beautiful women in the world Undo Thiyam took Manipur and Indian theatre onto the global stage, creating a new theatrical form by synthesising diverse performance traditions from his homeland. His works showcase the seamless blending of elements from the classical Natya Shastra (Indian theatre style during the second century BC) and Western realistic theatre with Manipuri's rich indigenous performing arts such as martial arts (thang-ta), dance, music, and ritualistic gestures. Through this artistic strategy, Thiyam asserted the socio-political and cultural uniqueness of Manipur, positioning it as separate from the mainland's dominant cultural narratives. This gained him national and international recognition as a playwright and director. His celebrated plays, such as Chakravyuha and Uttar Priyadarshi, brought global acclaim to Manipuri theatre and Indian drama at large. His main contributions to Indian theatre innovations are profound and transformative, significantly shaping the direction of contemporary Indian performance. His influence reverberates through his unique stylistic language, institutional leadership, and continued advocacy for indigenous forms and social consciousness. In 1976, Thiyam established the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal, which became a national hub for experimental, visually rich, and socially responsible theatre. The theatre trained and inspired generations of artists and encouraged the fusion of rural and urban motifs, traditional and modern directing techniques, and innovative stagecraft. His work is celebrated for its striking visual design, choreography, and music, combining scenic minimalism and grand imagery. His plays featured stylised movements, ritualistic gestures, symbolic props, and a deep focus on atmosphere that set new standards for Indian stagecraft, creating a holistic theatre experience. Thiyam's plays often explore profound themes. His Leima Yenlingai Khuna Kaba (1980) addresses the motif of corruption in society transforming into an instrument of religious terror, while Urubhangam (1981), adapted from the Sanskrit play by Bhāsa, focuses on Duryodhana's tragic story from the Mahabharata. Lengshonnei (1986), his adaptation of Bertolt Brecht's version of Sophocles' Antigone, reinterprets the Greek tragedy through classical and traditional Indian forms interwoven with tribal rituals. Another masterwork, Chakravyuha (1984), rooted in the Mahabharata (Drona Parva), is considered one of Thiyam's finest productions, where he presents a powerful meditation on war, entrapment, and the heroism of the young warrior Abhimanyu. Another acclaimed production, Urubhangam (Broken Thigh, 1981), adapted from the Sanskrit play by Bhāsa, is based on an episode from the Mahabharata, focusing on the tragic downfall of Duryodhana. Both Urubhangam and Chakravyuha reflect Thiyam's belief in the timeless relevance of epics, recontextualised to comment on modern dilemmas. One of his most internationally acclaimed works is Uttar Priyadarshi, an adaptation of a Hindi verse play by celebrated poet and writer Agyeya, where Thiyam retells the story of Emperor Ashoka's spiritual transformation. These works exemplify Thiyam's ability to blend ancient texts and diverse performing traditions into cohesive contemporary theatre, addressing social, political, and philosophical questions with a rooted yet innovative dramatic language. A towering figure in contemporary Indian theatre, celebrated for combining classical, indigenous, and modern elements in his plays, Thiyam's death marks the departure of one of India's greatest theatre innovators, whose lifelong dedication elevated Manipuri traditions to the global stage and enriched the country's artistic heritage.
Indian Express
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
‘Theatre was his protest': Pune remembers Ratan Thiyam
Around 50 people gathered at the condolence meeting held at The Box in Pune to remember one of the most towering figures of Indian theatre, Ratan Thiyam. The event had eminent director Atul Pethe reading excerpts from a write up about Thiyam and playwrights Ashutosh Potdar and Satish Alekar and filmmaker and film educator Anupam Barve talking about Thiyam. Thiyam died at 76 at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal. The condolence meeting recalled the influence of Thiyam, who had brought many of his iconic plays to Pune. Alekar shared many important incidents, facts and insights about Thiyam, his theatre and Manipuri tradition and culture. Thiyam's works seamlessly merged ancient Indian performance traditions with contemporary narratives. His death marks the end of an era in Indian performing arts. Thiyam was a recipient of the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987 and is remembered as a theatre guru who redefined the language of stagecraft in India. 'This is a massive loss to the cultural field of Manipur, and Indian theatre as a whole. A few years ago, we lost the other side of the coin, the director Heisnam Kanhailal. Now, with Ratan ji gone, Manipuri theatre has lost both its giants,' said Alekar, a Marathi playwright and co-founder of the Theatre Academy of Pune. Born on January 20, 1948, Thiyam was a student of Ebrahim Alkazi at the National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi. 'He didn't replicate Alkazi's theatre. Thiyam created his own theatre with his own roots- Manipuri roots, which are distinctly different from Indian mainstream traditions,' said Alekar. In plays, such as Antigone, Urubhangam, Ritusamhara and Andha Yug, Thiyam developed a language of theatre that was spiritually intense, visually immersive, and politically resonant. 'Andha Yug was not just a play. It was a complete visual and sonic experience. The chorus was composed entirely of Manipuri performers. It became a tragedy of the people of Manipur told through a new angle. That was the genius of Ratan Thiyam,' said Anirudha Kuthwad, director and theatre educator associated with NSD and FTII. Thiyam often referred to theatre as a medium of protest, not mere performance. 'He believed in theatre as a tool to voice the pain of his people. He once said in a discussion, 'I see theatre as protest. I see the play as a protest.' And that's how he lived it,' added Kuthwad. One of his later landmark productions, When We Dead Awaken, an adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's work, was placed in the contemporary context of Manipur's turmoil, reinforcing his commitment to using myth to critique the present. Kuthwad echoed the sentiment, 'We may never see someone like him again. His devotion, his creative energy, even in his senior years was unmatched. He didn't just take Manipuri theatre to India, he took it to the world.' 'The government should take note of what Ratan and Kanhailal built. What Manipur needs right now is not more politics, but cultural intervention- classical concerts, traditional performances, contemporary plays grounded in reality. That would be the true homage to Ratan Thiyam's life's work,'said Alekar.
India Today
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Ratan Thiyam, Indian playwright and theatre icon, dies at 77
Legendary Indian playwright, theatre director, and cultural visionary Ratan Thiyam died in the early hours of Wednesday at the age of 77, leaving behind a towering legacy in Indian theatre. He breathed his last at around 1:30 am at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal, where he had been undergoing treatment.A pioneering figure in the "Theatre of Roots" movement, Thiyam was best known for fusing traditional Manipuri performance styles with contemporary theatrical forms, crafting a distinctive stage language that earned him critical acclaim both in India and abroad. His decades-long career transformed the landscape of modern Indian theatre, making him one of its most revered and influential contributions were recognised with numerous national and international accolades. His honours included the Indo-Greek Friendship Award (1984), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1987), Fringe Firsts Award at the Edinburgh International Festival (1987), and the Padma Shri conferred by the Government of India in 1989. In 1990, he gained global recognition with the Diploma from the Cervantino International Festival in Mexico. His later awards included the Kalidas Samman (2005), John D. Rockefeller Award (2008), Bharat Muni Samman (2011), and the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (Akademi Ratna) in 2012, capping his legacy as a true cultural titan. He also received the Bhupen Hazarika Foundation Award in news of his demise spread, tributes and condolences poured in from across the country. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described Thiyam as 'a leading light of the Theatre of Roots movement' and 'a brilliant ambassador of the rich culture of Manipur and the Northeast.''He used art as a powerful vehicle to convey the emotions and aspirations of the people,' Sarma said in a heartfelt tribute on social Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also expressed deep sorrow over Thiyam's passing, calling him 'a true luminary of Indian theatre' and 'an esteemed son of Manipur.' Singh remembered Thiyam for his unwavering passion for theatre and his role in preserving and promoting Manipuri cultural heritage through the stage.'His work carried the soul of Manipur, echoing its stories, its struggles, and its beauty,' Singh a former chairperson of the National School of Drama (NSD), is credited with elevating Indian theatre to international standards. His innovative use of movement, music, and stagecraft brought alive themes of identity, morality, and human conflict, grounded in Indian philosophical and aesthetic for iconic productions such as Chakravyuh, Uttar Priyadarshi, and Andha Yug, Thiyam built a formidable reputation as a master storyteller, philosopher, and cultural guardian. His theatre company, Chorus Repertory Theatre, based in Imphal, became a training ground and home for aspiring artists from across the Thiyam's death marks the end of an era, but his artistic spirit will continue to resonate through generations of theatre practitioners, scholars, and contributions not only brought Manipuri theatre into the national spotlight but also made a lasting impact on the global stage.- Ends
News18
17 hours ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Padma Shri Awardee Ratan Thiyam, Icon of Manipuri Theatre, Dies At 77
Veteran theatre director and Padma Shri awardee Ratan Thiyam passed away in Imphal at 77. Veteran theatre director, playwright, and Padma Shri awardee Ratan Thiyam passed away in Imphal early Wednesday, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that shaped Indian theatre and brought global attention to Manipuri performing arts. He was 77 years old. According to state officials, Thiyam breathed his last at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences around 1:30 am following a prolonged illness. His death has drawn heartfelt tributes from across the artistic and political spectrum, with many recalling his deep impact on Indian culture. 'Thiyam died at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences at around 1.30 am on Wednesday after a prolonged illness," a state government official confirmed. Thiyam, who received the Padma Shri in 1989, was widely known for merging traditional Manipuri theatrical traditions with experimental storytelling and poetic imagery. As the founder of the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal, he carved a unique space in the Indian theatre landscape. He also briefly served as the director of the National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi, between 1987 and 1988. Mourning his passing, the Manipur government issued a statement expressing deep sorrow. '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. 'We join the artistic fraternity and the nation in remembering his extraordinary legacy. Heartfelt condolences to his family, disciples and admirers around the world." Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh also shared a personal tribute on X (formerly Twitter), describing Thiyam as a 'true luminary of Indian theatre." '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," Singh wrote. May his soul rest in peace! view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
India.com
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Veteran Theatre Legend Ratan Thiyam Passes Away At 77: Former Manipur CM Biren Singh, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Among Others Mourn Demise
New Delhi: Renowned theatre artist Ratan Thiyam, recipient of the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, passed away at the age of 77 on Wednesday morning. He breathed his last at 1:30 am at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal. Thiyam was one of the pioneers behind the 'Theatre of Roots' movement in Indian theatre, which began in the 1970s. Fondly known as Thiyam Nemai, he was celebrated for incorporating ancient Indian theatre traditions and forms into a contemporary context through his writings. Besides being a playwright and director, he was also a painter and dabbled in writing and music. RIP Ratan Thiyam: Condolences Pour In Tributes have poured in from across the country, with admirers and institutions paying respects to the theatre maestro. The Sahitya Akademi, through its official handle on X , wrote: 'Sad to know that a very distinguished playwright, director, writer, scholar, leading personality of the '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 and touched millions of hearts through his works. His plays have been staged as well as adapted across the world. He will be missed in Indian performance and literary circles.' 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… — Sahitya Akademi (@sahityaakademi) July 23, 2025 All India Radio (AIR) also extended condolences on X: 'Globally acclaimed theatre personality Ratan Thiyam has passed away. He is known for his direction in internationally acclaimed dramas like Chakravyuha, Uttar Priyadarshi, Hey Nungshibi Prithivi, and Chinglon Mapan Tampak Ama.' Globally acclaimed Theatre personality Ratan Thiyam has passes away. Ratan Thiyam is known for his direction in the internally acclaimed dramas like "Chakrabvyuha", "Uttar Priyadarshi", "Hey Nungshibi Prithivi", "Chinglon Mapan Tampak ama". He was honoured with Fringe First… — All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) July 23, 2025 He was honoured with the Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh International Festival in 1987 for his play Chakravyuha. Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad Kongkal Sangma, expressed his grief: 'Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam, 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. Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam , 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… — Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) July 23, 2025 Heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and all who admired his art. May he rest in peace.' Chief Minister of Assam Himanta Biswa Sarma, also paid tribute, calling him: 'A leading light of the Theatre of Roots movement.' He added: 'Shri Ratan Thiyam dedicated his life to bringing 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 Northeast and was able to use art as a vehicle to convey people's emotions and aspirations. 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… — Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) July 23, 2025 My deepest condolences on his demise.' Former Chief Minister of Manipur, Biren Singh offered his heartfelt condolences: '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. 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… — N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) July 23, 2025 May his soul rest in peace and his spirit continue to live on in the works he leaves behind and in the countless lives he inspired.' The Sangeet Natak Akademi also issued a statement: 'Sangeet Natak Akademi mourns the passing of Ratan Thiyam — legendary playwright, theatre director, and Akademi Fellow. Heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. May his legacy live on.' Sangeet Natak Akademi mourns the passing of Ratan Thiyam — legendary playwright, theatre director, and Akademi Fellow. Heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. May his legacy live on.#SangeetNatakAkademi #Theatre #Culture #RatanThiyam — Sangeet Natak Akademi (@sangeetnatak) July 23, 2025 Ratan Thiyam's Prolific Legacy Ratan Thiyam served as the Chairperson of the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD) from 2013 to 2017. Prior to this, he was Vice-Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi. In 1976, he founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre on the outskirts of Imphal, Manipur. His accolades include: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Direction (1987) Padma Shri (1989) Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (2012) Several national and international honours for his outstanding contributions to theatre Ratan Thiyam's legacy will continue to shape and inspire generations of artists and theatre lovers across the world.
