Manipur Clubs Confederation Demands Bharat Ratna for Theatre Legend Ratan Thiyam

The Uripok Apunba Lup (UAL), a prominent confederation of clubs based in Imphal, has formally requested Inner Manipur Member of Parliament Dr. Bimol Akoijam to advocate for the posthumous conferment of the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, on the legendary theatre personality Ratan Thiyam. The appeal is made through a detailed memorandum signed by UAL President Soram Tekendrajit Singh, which highlights Thiyam’s immense contributions to Indian theatre and culture.

In the memorandum, UAL describes Ratan Thiyam as an exceptional genius who revolutionized Indian theatre by integrating his unique artistic sensibilities and philosophical perspectives. Thiyam’s approach to theatre was multidimensional, blending traditional and contemporary elements, which allowed him to create a distinctive theatrical language that resonated not only within India but also on the global stage. His work challenged and expanded the boundaries of conventional theatre, earning him a revered status as a transformative figure in the art form.

Thiyam’s legacy extends far beyond his role as a playwright; he was also a director, musician, choreographer, and the founder of the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal. This theatre group under his leadership gained international acclaim and became a significant hub for contemporary theatrical innovation. His renowned plays such as "Chakravyahu" and "Lairembeegee Eshei" have been performed globally and received critical acclaim for their depth, narrative style, and cultural richness.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Thiyam served in several prestigious cultural institutions. He was associated with the Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s national academy for music, dance, and drama, and the National School of Drama, where his expertise influenced many budding theatre practitioners. His exemplary work earned him numerous accolades over his lifetime, including the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, and the Tagore Ratna, recognizing his outstanding contributions to arts and culture.

UAL’s memorandum emphasizes that awarding the Bharat Ratna to Ratan Thiyam would not only honor his towering contributions but also serve as a rightful tribute to his enduring impact on Indian arts and culture. The confederation believes that his visionary work deserves the highest national recognition, reflecting the profound influence he had in shaping contemporary Indian theatre and bringing international attention to the art form.

The confederation’s move comes at a time when the arts community is advocating for greater recognition of cultural icons who have shaped India’s artistic heritage. By urging the MP to take this forward, UAL hopes to ensure that Thiyam’s legacy receives the honor it truly merits, inspiring future generations of artists and theatre lovers.

In summary, the Uripok Apunba Lup’s appeal encapsulates Ratan Thiyam’s exceptional role as a pioneering theatre legend whose contributions spanned multiple disciplines and earned international acclaim. The confederation’s call for the Bharat Ratna reflects a collective recognition of his lifelong dedication to enriching Indian theatre and cultural heritage. This move aims to solidify Thiyam’s place among India’s most celebrated cultural figures, honoring his legacy with the nation’s highest civilian award posthumously.