Imphal, August 5: The Uripok Apunba Lup (UAL), a prominent confederation of clubs based in Imphal, has submitted a formal memorandum urging Inner Manipur MP Dr. Bimol Akoijam to push for the posthumous conferral of the Bharat Ratna — India’s highest civilian honour — on legendary theatre icon Ratan Thiyam.
In the memorandum signed by UAL President Soram Tekendrajit Singh, the organisation hailed Thiyam as a “rare genius” who redefined Indian theatre through a rich blend of artistic mastery and philosophical depth. The group described him as a towering cultural figure whose work transcended boundaries and earned global recognition.
Ratan Thiyam, founder of the renowned Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal, was widely celebrated for his multidimensional contributions to the arts. A gifted playwright, director, choreographer, musician, and scholar, Thiyam’s work drew from ancient Indian traditions and contemporary socio-political themes, making him one of the most influential voices in modern Indian theatre.
His acclaimed plays, including “Chakravyahu” and “Lairembeegee Eshei”, were not only performed across India but also received international acclaim, establishing Manipur as a vibrant hub of contemporary theatre.
The memorandum also highlighted Thiyam’s service to India’s cultural institutions, notably his leadership roles at the Sangeet Natak Akademi and the National School of Drama. He was a recipient of numerous national honours, including the Padma Shri and Tagore Ratna, recognising his lifelong commitment to the performing arts.
UAL stated that bestowing the Bharat Ratna posthumously would be a fitting tribute to Thiyam’s unmatched contributions and his enduring impact on Indian cultural heritage. The organisation called upon MP Dr. Bimol Akoijam to take up the cause at the national level and ensure that Thiyam’s legacy is honoured at the highest level.
