Renowned actress Kshetrimayum Rashi, popularly known by her stage name Rashi Leima, passed away on Friday at the age of 75, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that played a foundational role in the evolution of Manipuri cinema and theatre.
Rashi Leima rose to prominence with her role in Matamgi Manipur (1972), the first full-length feature film of the state. Her performance not only made her a household name but also marked the beginning of a new era in Manipuri cinema.
Born in March 1950, she was deeply influenced by her mother, Rasamani Devi, a noted figure in the arts, who introduced her to the world of performance. Rashi Leima made her stage debut in September 1969 at the Aryan Theatre in Imphal, portraying the iconic freedom fighter Rani Gaidinliu in the play Jadonang. Her powerful portrayal earned high praise from Rani Gaidinliu herself, setting the stage for a distinguished career in theatre and film.
Following her cinematic debut in Matamgi Manipur, she went on to star in several landmark films, including Lamja Parsuram (1974) and Olangthagee Wangmadasu (1979). Her role as a widow in Olangthagee Wangmadasu was particularly impactful, resonating with audiences and critics alike.
Rashi Leima’s contribution to Manipuri arts, both on stage and on screen, continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.