Renowned playwright and director Ratan Thiyam, a pioneering figure in Indian theatre and Padma Shri awardee, passed away at the age of 77 in Imphal. Known for revolutionizing theatre through traditional Manipuri aesthetics and spiritual depth, his demise marks the end of an era in Indian performing arts.

Key Points:

• Ratan Thiyam died at RIMS Hospital in Imphal after a prolonged illness on July 23, 2025, at the age of 77.
• A leading figure of India’s “theatre of roots” movement, he was known for fusing tradition with modern stagecraft.
• He founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal in 1976 and directed National School of Drama from 1987 to 1988.
• His iconic plays include Chakravyuha, Uttar Priyadarshi, Andha Yug, and Nine Hills One Valley.
• Thiyam received numerous honors including the Padma Shri, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Kalidas Samman, and international theatre awards.