FOCS pays tribute to late P. Sonamani and Theatre icon Ratan Thiyam

A condolence gathering was held at the headquarters of the Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS), located near the Imphal War Cemetery, to honour the legacy of two prominent figures of Manipur — retired IPS officer and socio-political commentator P. Sonamani, and internationally renowned theatre personality Ratan Thiyam.
The programme, which commenced at 2:00 PM, was attended by representatives of various civil society organisations, intellectuals, and members of the public. Organised by FOCS and supported by affiliated groups, the event began with floral tributes to a portrait of the late P. Sonamani, followed by a two-minute silence in his memory.
P. Sonamani, a native of Thangmeiband Hijam Dewan Leikai, served as Superintendent of Police in Nagaland before retiring from active service. In his post-retirement years, he became a respected socio-political commentator and played a vital role in engaging with issues concerning the Manipuri diaspora. Speakers at the event described him as a thinker who worked tirelessly for the upliftment of Manipuris, both within and beyond the state, using theoretical frameworks to address evolving challenges.
FOCS President BM Yaima Shah, while speaking on the occasion, highlighted Sonamani’s contributions to society, recalling his efforts to connect with Manipuri communities across India and abroad. He also lauded Sonamani’s role in shaping public discourse on identity, culture, and justice through his writings and activism.
The gathering took a somber turn with the announcement of the passing of renowned theatre director Padma Shri Ratan Thiyam, who breathed his last at 1:45 PM at RIMS Hospital, Imphal. Though the event was initially organised to honour P. Sonamani, news of Thiyam’s demise deeply moved the attendees. Many paid impromptu tributes to the celebrated theatre maestro, acknowledging his immense contributions to Manipuri arts and global theatre.
Ratan Thiyam, known for his poetic narratives and integration of traditional Manipuri elements with contemporary stagecraft, was remembered as a cultural icon whose influence extended far beyond India.
With both personalities leaving behind rich legacies in their respective fields, the memorial event became a moment of collective reflection for Manipur — honouring lives that shaped the state’s intellectual and artistic identity.