Shumang Leela artiste Oinam Thoiba passes away
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, March 05 2024:
Shumang Leela artiste Oinam Thoiba, better known as 'Ibai Thoiba', passed away at his home following an illness, Tuesday.
He was 70 and survived by his wife, three daughters and three sons.
Oinam Thoiba, born on September 15, 1954 at Naharup Mayai Leikai in Imphal East, stepped into Shumang Leela in 1976 and took part in the play "Puya Mei Thaba" .
Also known as "Point Kouta" by his fans, Thoiba joined different Shumang Leela groups including Naharol Khongthang Artistes' Association (Chakthekpi party), Imphal Jatra cum Drama Association, Time Star, The North Imphal Jatra Mandal and Peace Maker Artistes' Association with over 100 plays under his belt.
He had also directed a number of plays before formal retirement from Shumang Leela in 2017 .
Oinam Thoiba won the best actor award for his role in "Leikang Thaba Thabaton" at the Festival of Shumang Leela organised by Manipur State Kala Akademi in 1984 and best supporting actor for "Manglangi Manja" in 1990.He also received the second best director award for "Keidoungei Chatkani" at the Shumang Leela Festival 2006-07 and adjudged the best director for "Arangba Thawanmichak" at the 2016-17 edition of the festival.