Ratan Thiyam: A Luminary of Indian Theatre Dimmed .
The world of Indian theatre mourns the loss of Ratan Thiyam, a visionary whose artistry illuminated stages across the globe, weaving narratives that transcended borders and cultures. Born in 1948 in Imphal, Manipur, Thiyam passed away, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of theatre enthusiasts. His life, a tapestry of creativity, dedication, and innovation, transformed Indian theatre into a universal language of expression. As we bid farewell to this titan of the performing arts, we reflect on his extraordinary contributions, his profound philosophy, and the indelible mark he left on the global stage.
A Childhood Steeped in Art
Ratan Thiyam was born into a family where art was not just a pursuit but a way of life. His father, Guru Thiyam Tarun Kumar, was a revered maestro of classical Manipuri dance, while his mother, Bilasini Devi, was a celebrated dancer in her own right. Growing up in this vibrant artistic milieu in Imphal, young Ratan was surrounded by the rhythms, movements, and storytelling traditions of Manipur. Despite the socio-economic challenges of his early years, his connection to the performing arts remained unwavering, shaping his destiny as one of India’s most revered theatre practitioners.
A graduate of the National School of Drama (NSD) in New Delhi in 1974, Thiyam honed his craft in dramatic arts, emerging as a multifaceted artist. His roles as director, actor, musician, choreographer, lighting designer, costume designer, architect, playwright, painter, and poet reflected his boundless creativity. This versatility allowed him to approach theatre holistically, creating productions that were as visually stunning as they were intellectually profound.
The Birth of Chorus Repertory Theatre
In 1976, Thiyam founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre Company in Imphal, a milestone that marked the beginning of a theatrical revolution. Nestled in the culturally rich landscape of Manipur, the company became a crucible for his artistic experiments, blending traditional Manipuri performing arts with contemporary theatrical forms.
The Chorus Repertory Theatre captivated audiences with its panoramic grace, vivid imagery, and a unique aesthetic that drew from the cultural heritage of Manipur while addressing universal themes.
Thiyam’s productions, such as Chakravyuha, Uttar-Priyadarshi, and Ritusamharam, were not mere performances but immersive experiences that married poetry, music, movement, and visual design. His ability to weave intricate narratives with socio-political undertones made his work resonate with audiences worldwide. Even after nearly five decades, the Chorus Repertory Theatre remains a beacon of artistic excellence, a testament to Thiyam’s enduring vision.
Theatre as a Collective Expression
At the heart of Thiyam’s philosophy was the belief that theatre is a “collective expression.” He viewed the actor as a vehicle for thematic content, a conduit through which stories could transcend the stage and touch the soul. “An actor should be a well-rounded person,” Thiyam once said. “He need not be a master of all forms of art, but he should have a command over the basics of aesthetics so that he can use that experience as a vehicle of expression on the stage.” This philosophy guided his rigorous training methods, which emphasized discipline, cultural rootedness, and emotional authenticity.
Thiyam’s actors were not just performers but storytellers who embodied the essence of his vision. His productions were a symphony of elements—music, dance, lighting, and costumes—all meticulously crafted to create a cohesive narrative. This holistic approach distinguished his work, earning him accolades and admiration from critics and audiences alike.
A Global Theatre Icon
Thiyam’s contributions extended far beyond India’s borders, establishing him as a global theatre personality. His productions were showcased at prestigious international festivals, from Edinburgh to Avignon, where they were lauded for their originality and emotional depth. His ability to fuse Manipuri traditions with universal themes allowed his work to resonate with diverse audiences, making him a cultural ambassador for Indian theatre.
His play Kanupriya, performed at the Kamani Auditorium during the inauguration of Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2025, was a fitting tribute to his genius. Organized by the National School of Drama, the international theatre festival provided a stage for Thiyam’s artistry to shine, reminding audiences of his unparalleled ability to blend tradition with innovation.
A Legacy of Accolades
Thiyam’s contributions were recognized with a slew of prestigious awards that underscored his impact on the arts. He received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1987, followed by the Padma Shri in 1989, one of India’s highest civilian honors. His international acclaim included the La Gro Medal from France (1997) and the International Man of the Year in the Field of Theatre and Humanism (1998-99). Other notable honors included the B.M. Shah Award by NSD (2000), the Kalidas Samman (2006), and the John D. Rockefeller II Award by the Asian Cultural Council, New York (2007). In 2012, he was named a National Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellow, and in 2013, Assam University, Silchar, conferred upon him an honorary D.Litt degree.
Fellowships from the Ford Foundation (USA), Manipur State Kala Academy, Japan Foundation, and Korean Foundation further underscored his global influence. These accolades were not merely trophies but reflections of a life dedicated to pushing the boundaries of theatrical expression.
A Visionary’s Enduring Impact
Ratan Thiyam’s theatre was a celebration of the human spirit, a dialogue between tradition and modernity, and a testament to the power of art to bridge divides. His work addressed themes of war, peace, identity, and humanity, often drawing from ancient texts and myths to comment on contemporary issues. His productions were not just performances but profound meditations on life, delivered with a visual and emotional intensity that left audiences transformed.
Beyond his artistic contributions, Thiyam was a mentor and inspiration to countless theatre practitioners. His tenure as director of the National School of Drama and president of the NSD Society shaped the institution’s legacy, nurturing a new generation of artists who carry forward his vision. His emphasis on cultural rootedness and artistic discipline continues to influence theatre training in India and beyond.
A Flame Extinguished, A Legacy Eternal
As we mourn the loss of Ratan Thiyam, we celebrate a life that burned brightly, illuminating the world of theatre with its brilliance. The lamp of color he lit may have dimmed, but its glow will continue to inspire. His Chorus Repertory Theatre remains a living testament to his genius, a space where his spirit will forever dance in the interplay of light, sound, and story.
In the words of Thiyam himself, theatre is a collective expression, and his legacy is a collective treasure. From the stages of Imphal to the global spotlight, Ratan Thiyam’s artistry will continue to resonate, reminding us of the transformative power of theatre. As we bid farewell to this great luminary, we hold fast to the stories he told, the worlds he created, and the humanity he celebrated through his art.
Hasnain Naqvi is a former member of the history faculty at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
