Ratan Thiyam, the theatre director and playwright from Manipur who founded Imphal-based Chorus Repertory Theatre, died in Imphal on 23 July 2025, aged 77. His productions—including Chakravyuha—and his service at national arts institutions brought recognition to his work beyond Manipur.
When did Ratan Thiyam die?
Thiyam died at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal on 23 July 2025. A contemporaneous PTI report published by Hindustan Times put the time at around 1:30 a.m. and said he had been ill for a prolonged period; Akashvani News reported that he had been hospitalized at RIMS in the days before his death. The reports cited here do not establish a specific medical cause.
Hindustan Times quoted a Manipur government statement mourning “a towering figure in Indian theatre and a cultural icon of Manipur.”
What was Ratan Thiyam known for?
Thiyam founded Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal, a company through which he developed and presented work rooted in his artistic engagement with Manipur and theatre traditions. The Indian Express described him as a leading figure in a post-Independence theatre movement that embraced traditional and indigenous practices. That characterization places his work within a wider movement, rather than reducing it to a single style or production.
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Notable productions and recognition
Akashvani News names these among Thiyam’s notable productions; the list is not exhaustive:
- Chakravyuha, which received the Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh International Festival in 1987.
- Uttar Priyadarshi.
- Hey Nungshibi Prithivi.
- Chinglon Mapan Tampak ama.
His documented honours include the Padma Shri in 1989 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987, according to Akashvani News.
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His work in national theatre institutions
Thiyam also held roles in India’s national performing-arts institutions. Akashvani News identifies him as chairperson of the National School of Drama (NSD) and vice-chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi. A PTI report published by Hindustan Times describes him as having briefly served as NSD director. These accounts establish different roles, but do not provide a detailed tenure chronology.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.A 2026 tribute in Imphal
In January 2026, the Ministry of Culture announced a three-day tribute to Thiyam in Imphal, presented by NSD and Chorus Repertory Theatre as part of the 25th Bharat Rang Mahotsav. The programme included Kanupriya and Lairembigee Eshei (Song of the Nymphs), according to the Ministry of Culture release. This was a dated event, not a recurring schedule.
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