Ratan Thiyam Age, Wiki and Bio

Ratan Thiyam

Quick Info

ProfessionPlaywright, Theatre Director
NationalityIndian
Date of Birth20/01/1948
Age77 years (died on 23, Jul, 2025)
BirthplaceNabadwip, West Bengal, India
Date of Death23/07/2025

Bio/Wiki

Other Name(s)
  • Thiyam Nemai
  • Thiyam Nimai

Physical Stats & More

Height5' 9" (175 cm)
Eye ColorBlack
Hair ColorSalt & Pepper

Educational Qualification(s)

SchoolJohnstone Higher Secondary School, Imphal
College/UniversityNational School of Drama (NSD), New Delhi (1974)
Educational QualificationGraduate

Personal Life

Zodiac SignCapricorn
HometownImphal, Manipur
Hobbies
  • Reading

Relationships & More

Marital StatusMarried
Wife/SpouseDamayanti Devi
Children
Son1
Daughter(s)2

Family

FatherThiyam Tarun Kumar (classical dancer)
MotherBilasini Devi (classical dancer)
SpouseDamayanti Devi
Children1 Son, 2 Daughters

Career

Awards and Honors
  • 1984: Indo-Greek Friendship Award (Greece)
  • 1987: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Direction
  • 1987: Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe
  • 1989: Padma Shri for his outstanding contributions to the arts (returned in 2001)
  • 1990: Diploma of Cervantino International Festival
  • 2005: Kalidas Samman
  • 2008: John D. Rockefeller Award by the Asian Cultural Council
  • 2011: Bharat Muni Samman
  • 2012: Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship
  • 2012: Tagore Ratna
  • 2013: Doctor of Literature (D.Litt.) from Assam University, Silchar
  • 2013: Bhupen Hazarika Foundation Award
  • 2018: Legends of India - Lifetime Achievement Award (31 August)
  • 2025: Lifetime Achievement Award at the 53rd Statehood Day of Manipur
Career OverviewRatan 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, where he directed and produced over 60 plays, showcasing his talents in writing, music, and set design.

Favourites

FoodMatar Paneer

Some Lesser Known Facts

Ratan Thiyam's early exposure to dance and theatre through his parents shaped his artistic journey.
He initially disdained performing arts due to constant travel but eventually grew fond of it.
At 17, he published a collection of short stories and founded a literary journal.
He began his theatre career by writing a play after being prompted by local actors.
Thiyam blended various classical influences, including Bharata’s Natya Shastra and ancient Greek drama, into his theatrical style.
His adaptation of a Bengali novel marked his deeper engagement with theatre.
Thiyam's numerous accolades reflect his impactful contribution to the arts and culture.