In a heartfelt cultural appeal, Soram Tekendrajit Singh, President of Uripok Apunba Lup, has submitted a memorandum to Dr. Angomcha Bimol Akoijam, Member of Parliament (Inner Manipur), requesting his intervention to posthumously confer the Bharat Ratna—the highest civilian award in India—on legendary theatre maestro Late Ratan Thiyam.

The memorandum highlights Ratan Thiyam’s extraordinary contributions to Indian theatre, literature, music, and stagecraft. Widely regarded as a visionary playwright, director, choreographer, set designer, and musician, Thiyam was known for blending philosophical thought with theatrical innovation, crafting performances that explored the soul of civilization through art.

“He was a rare genius whose works have left an indelible mark on Indian theatre and beyond,” the memorandum notes.

Ratan Thiyam held several prestigious positions during his lifetime, including Vice Chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi, Director of the National School of Drama (1987–1989), and Chairman of NSD (2013–2017). He also played a pivotal role in organizing Festival of India events abroad and published poetry, short stories, novels, and critical essays.

His achievements have been recognized with numerous national and international awards, including:

Padma Shri (1989)

Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1987)

Tagore Ratna Award (2012)

Indira Gandhi National Integration Award (2008)

Fringe First Award (1987, UK)

Bharat Muni Samman (2011)

B.M. Shah Award (2000)

Bhupen Hazarika Foundation Award (2013)

Eight honorary doctorates from prestigious universities

One of his most cherished contributions to his home state was the founding of the Chorus Repertory Theatre in Imphal in 1976. What began as a swampy expanse is now a thriving cultural campus known as “The Shrine,” where generations of artists have trained and performed.

Among the timeless productions staged at The Shrine are Chakravyuha (performed over 100 times globally), Lairembigee Eshei, Asibagee Eshei, and Uttar Priyadarshi. The memorandum describes the space as “a pilgrimage site for any theatre enthusiast.”

Soram Tekendrajit Singh emphasized that this appeal is a humble acknowledgment of the vast legacy Ratan Thiyam has left behind. He urged both the central and state governments to recognize Thiyam’s unparalleled contributions to the arts by bestowing upon him the Bharat Ratna, calling it a “fitting national tribute to an enlightened soul.”