The Uripok Apunba Lup (UAL), a prominent club confederation in Imphal, has urged Inner Manipur MP Dr. Bimol Akoijam to advocate for awarding the Bharat Ratna posthumously to theatre legend Ratan Thiyam. In a memorandum signed by UAL President Soram Tekendrajit Singh, Thiyam was praised as a rare genius who redefined Indian theatre through his artistic and philosophical vision. The memo highlighted his multifaceted legacy as a playwright, director, musician, and founder of the Chorus Repertory Theatre, which gained global recognition. Thiyam received honors like Padma Shri and Tagore Ratna, and UAL believes Bharat Ratna would honor his immense contributions to Indian arts and culture.