Art & community bodies mourn demise of eminent personalities
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 20 2026: Cultural organisations and community groups across Manipur have condoled the passing of several distinguished personalities who contributed immensely to the State's arts and social spheres.

The Huyen Lallong Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association (HLMTTCA) and Progressive Artistes Laboratory (PAL) expressed deep sorrow over the untimely demise of legendary Manipuri classical dance exponent and Padma Shri awardee Kshetrimayum Ongbi Thouranisabi Devi.

HLMTTCA held a condolence meeting at its Irilbung premises on Wednesday.

Presided over by Padma Shri K Shanathoiba Sharma, members and students offered floral tributes and observed a two-minute silence for the departed guru.

PAL also convened a meeting at its office on Tuesday, where members led by director N Tiken Singh extended solidarity to the bereaved family and observed a two-minute silence.

Both bodies hailed Thouranisabi Devi as a towering figure who played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Manipuri classical dance and Nata Sankirtana.

They noted her long service as a principal instructor at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) and her scholarly work, including the book Diva Ras.

The Kabui Union Manipur, Kabui Customary Council Manipur, and Kabui Union Bishnupur District conveyed deep sorrow over the sudden demise of Kamal Kamson of Mahabali Kabui Khul.

The groups described Kamson as a prominent figure who worked tirelessly for the upliftment of the Kabui community and played a major role in forming the Kabui Union.

They shared the grief of the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul.

Kangla Films, Manipur and Nongpok Panthoibi Khubam condoled the death of Keisham Roben of Kongba Uchekon Khunou, who passed away on May 17, after a brief illness.

Roben was a founder member of Kangla Films Manipur and assistant secretary of Panthoubi Thougal Lup.

In separate condolence meetings, members of both organisations paid respects and extended solidarity to his family.

Moreover, Film Forum Manipur has expressed deep condolences on the sudden demise of its Chairman, Khangembam Kuleswar Singh.

Kuleswar passed away on Wednesday evening following a brief illness.

The Forum extended its heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.

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