Kshetrimayum Ongbi Thouranisabi Devi, one of the most revered exponents of Manipuri Classical Dance and a recipient of the prestigious Padma Shri, passed away at her residence at Singjamei Mathak Thokchom Leikai on Wednesday afternoon. She was 92.
Born on November 6, 1934, at Singjamei Sapam Leikai, Thouranisabi Devi dedicated her life to the preservation, promotion, and enrichment of Manipuri classical dance and culture. Widely respected for her mastery of Ras Leela and traditional Manipuri Jagoi, she emerged as one of Manipur’s foremost cultural icons and played a defining role in carrying the state’s artistic heritage to the national stage.
She was conferred the Padma Shri in 2003 in recognition of her immense contribution to Indian art and culture. Apart from being an acclaimed dancer and cultural scholar, she also served as the Principal of the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy.
Thouranisabi Devi also made significant literary contributions to Manipuri dance traditions. She authored the two-volume “Diva Ras” published in 1993 and wrote “Ras Makhal Amashung Nungi Mashak,” a work based on Manipuri Jagoi. In addition, she recorded six albums under His Master’s Voice (HMV), one of the most prominent recording labels of its time.
She was married to late Ksh Nawang of Singjamei Mathak Thokchom Leikai and is survived by her children — Ksh Ragini, Ksh Achoubi, Ksh Rajen, and Ksh Ranibala.
Her demise has been widely mourned across Manipur and beyond, with leaders, artistes, and cultural organisations describing her passing as an irreparable loss to the artistic fraternity.
Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Yumnam Khemchand Singh, and former Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh, along with several political leaders and public figures, expressed deep grief and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla described her as a towering figure in Manipuri classical dance whose lifelong dedication to preserving Manipur’s artistic heritage would continue to inspire generations. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh termed her passing an irreparable loss to both Manipur and the wider artistic community, while Nongthombam Biren Singh recalled her invaluable role in safeguarding and enriching the traditions of Manipuri classical dance and Ras Leela.