Quick Info
| Profession | Playwright, Theatre Director |
|---|---|
| Nationality | Indian |
| Date of Birth | 20/01/1948 |
| Age | 77 years (died on 23, Jul, 2025) |
| Birthplace | Nabadwip, West Bengal, India |
| Date of Death | 23/07/2025 |
Latest News about Ratan Thiyam
23/07/2025
Renowned Indian theatre director and playwright Ratan Thiyam passed away at the age of 77 in Imphal, Manipur. The founder of Chorus Repertory Theatre, celebrated for his ritualistic and indigenous aesthetic blending Manipuri traditions like Natya Sankirtana and Thang-Ta with global influences, left behind a transformative legacy in Indian theatre. His iconic productions such as Chakravyuha and Uttar Priyadarshi elevated Manipuri theatre to international acclaim, serving as metaphors for war, identity, and resistance.
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Bio/Wiki
| Other Name(s) |
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| Nickname(s) | Oja |
Physical Stats & More
| Height | 5' 9" (175 cm) |
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| Eye Color | Black |
| Hair Color | Salt & Pepper |
Educational Qualification(s)
| School | Johnstone Higher Secondary School, Imphal |
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| College/University | National School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi (1974) |
| Educational Qualification | Graduate in Dramatic Arts |
Personal Life
| Hobbies | Reading |
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Relationships & More
| Marital Status | Married |
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| Wife/Spouse | Damayanti Devi |
| Children |
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Family
| Father | Thiyam Tarun Kumar (classical dancer) |
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| Mother | Bilasini Devi (classical dancer) |
| Spouse | Damayanti Devi |
| Children | 1 Son, 2 Daughters |
Career
| Awards and Honors |
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| Career Overview | Ratan Thiyam was a pivotal figure in Indian theatre, known for integrating traditional forms with contemporary themes. He initially ventured into the visual arts but soon made his mark in theatre, where he established a unique style combining classical traditions with modern narratives. Thiyam founded the Chorus Repertory Theatre in 1976 on the outskirts of Imphal, where he directed and produced over 60 plays, showcasing his talents in writing, music, and set design. He served as Director of the National School of Drama (1987–88), its chairperson (2013–17), and chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi. He was instrumental in bringing the Theatre Olympics 2018 to India. |
Favourites
| Food | Matar Paneer |
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Some Lesser Known Facts
| 1. Ratan Thiyam's early exposure to dance and theatre through his parents shaped his artistic journey. | |
| 2. He initially disdained performing arts due to constant travel but eventually grew fond of it. | |
| 3. At 17, he published a collection of short stories and founded a literary journal. | |
| 4. He began his theatre career by writing a play after being prompted by local actors. | |
| 5. Thiyam blended various classical influences, including Bharata’s Natya Shastra and ancient Greek drama, into his theatrical style. | |
| 6. His adaptation of a Bengali novel marked his deeper engagement with theatre. | |
| 7. Thiyam's numerous accolades reflect his impactful contribution to the arts and culture. | |
| 8. He was a multifaceted artist working as a designer, music composer, choreographer, lighting expert, costume designer, architect, painter, and poet. |