Ratan Thiyam Is Really Wonderful |
Courtesy: Manipur Mail 14th January, 2003 |
The state had produced some wonderful men. One among them is Padmashri Ratan Thiyam. His 25 years labour had borne fruit in the creation of Chorus Repertory Theatre's shrine at Shamumakhong Uripok. Could anybody think of holding Asian theatre festival in Manipur? He is simply great. His undying devotion to art, his relentless commitment to make Manipur art and culture unique made him great in the field of his choice. He is par excellent, such man comes rarely. One and half decade back the then Chief Minister RK Jaichandra was addressing a news conference at the State Guesthouse. The galaxies of journalists from the national press coming to the state in connection with the national level cultural festival held in Manipur refused to talk on other issues. Their main concern was Ratan Thiyam, nothing else. They wanted to know from the Chief Minister what the Govt of Manipur has done for him. Perhaps the Govt of Manipur has not done anything for him that the then Chief Minister insisted the journalists to ask question oh law and order. There were none. But volley of questions on Ratan Thiyam poured. No wonder he is the youngest Padmashri winner from Manipur. He deserves more such national awards. A simple visit to his Shrine will make one understand the qualities in him. He is a combination of all. ft is said that he is respected by his disciples like a great saint. He is a strict disciplinarian. The shrine reflects a fearful sight at the gate. Wooden statues are erected at prominent place. It seems Ratan is crazy about water also. All his constructions juxtapose with well-carved water reservoir. It is also said that he did not hire any architect for constructing the shrine, which will remain as a sacred monument. He is a trendsetter too. All his dramas start exactly from the time mentioned in ticket or invitation card. A habit has been evolved. If it is Ratan's play naturally crowd always arrive much ahead of scheduled time. The state has a lot to learn from Padmashri Ratan Thiyam, a man born to develop Manipuri art and culture. You are really wonderful.
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