Indian Theatre Ace and Scholar Ratan Thiyam breathed his last at 77

Renowned Theatre Doyen and Padma Shree awardee Ratan Thiyam has passed away in Imphal, Manipur at the age of 77. The ace playwright and director passed away after sustaining post- covid complications and illness. 

Ratan Thiyam is known for pioneering in Indian theatre and a huge part of the ‘theatre of roots’ movement. He was admitted after a health alert at the Regional Institute of Medical Science Hospital in Imphal, Manipur. 

“Thiyam died at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences at around 1.30 am on Wednesday after a prolonged illness,” a state government official said, reports PTI.

From a towering figure who was relentless in the theatre circuit received his Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987 and was honoured with the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian honour in the country, in 1989. Known for his works such as ‘Chakravyuha’, 

Uttar Priyadarshi’ earned global acclaim with their rooted cultural narrative with a mould of modern progressive thoughts. 

He founded the Imphal based Chorus Repertory Theatre and also served as the director of the New Delhi National School of Drama from 1987-88. 

The Manipur government released a condolence statement saying, “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. “We join the artistic fraternity and the nation in remembering his extraordinary legacy. Heartfelt condolences to his family, disciples and admirers around the world,”

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh posted a message about the loss of Ratan Thiyam saying, “His work carried the soul of Manipur, echoing its stories, its struggles, and its beauty.”

With heavy hearts, I paid my tributes to Shri Ratan Thiyam and offered my heartfelt condolences to his family. Shri Ratan Thiyam was not only a towering icon of Indian theatre and culture but also a soul of rare depth, humility, and wisdom. His contributions have left an… pic.twitter.com/lMCZVQj0QM

— N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) July 23, 2025

 A Floral tribute has been arranged at the Chorus Repertory Theatre for fans and family to pay their last respects for the Theatre Icon and his final funeral rites will be performed. The timeless stories and Thiyam’s work will resonate with time. 

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