The need to accord due recognition to Manipur’s globally acclaimed theatre personalities Ratan Thiyam and Heisnam Kanhailal was strongly voiced during a two-day Indo-Bangla International Seminar that commenced on Thursday at the auditorium of the Manipur Dramatic Union (MDU).
The seminar, organised by the Palem Panthou Cultural Trust (PPCT) in observance of World Theatre Day, brought together leading artistes, scholars and cultural practitioners for discussions on theatre and its role in shaping society.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Elangbam Amitkumar Singh highlighted Manipur’s rich artistic heritage and noted that Ratan Thiyam and Heisnam Kanhailal have played a defining role in taking Manipuri theatre to the international stage. He urged the State Government to institute international-level theatre awards in their names to formally recognise their immense contributions.
He further pointed out that other states, such as Assam, have instituted prestigious honours in the names of their cultural icons, and stressed that similar initiatives are necessary in Manipur to acknowledge its eminent artistes.
The inaugural function was attended by Budha Chingtham, President of PPCT and Member of the Board of Governors, EZCC under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. Eminent writer and award-winning film producer RK Nayansana Devi and AIR Imphal’s Top Grade Artiste Labuktongbam Bhubaneshwari Devi were present as guests.
On the occasion, the “Salam Ibemcha & Irabot Memorial Award 2026” was conferred upon noted artiste Aribam Raseswori Devi in recognition of her contributions to art and culture.
The seminar will feature multiple technical sessions with paper presentations by scholars and experts, focusing on various aspects of theatre, literature and cultural exchange.