Memorial award presented to Biswamitra, Tomba
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, July 13 2024: Rupmahal Theatre has presented Hawaibam Nilamani Memorial Award to two renowned theatre directors, namely, Khwairakpam Biswamitra and Heisnam Tomba, in a function held at the auditorium of the theatre group, here, on Saturday.

Art and culture director Mongjam Joy, Rupmahal Theatre vice-chairman Loitongbam Brajamohon and Manipur State Kala Akademi secretary Sunanda Thokchom attended the occasion as chief guest, president and guest of honour respectively.

The annual award for 2023 was presented to Khwairakpam Biswamitra and the award for 2024 to Heisnam Tomba.

Each of the award carries Rs 10,000 in cash, citation and stole.

Speaking at the occasion, M Joy underscored the importance of dedication and sacrifices in every profession.

He also highlighted the theatre movement of the state and the establishment of Rupmahal Theatre marking the golden era of theatre in the state.

Sunanda Thokchom emphasised on the roles played by theatre in spreading message to the society and shaping a better society.

She expressed concern over the present state of theatre in the state and said that Manipur State Kala Akademi will play crucial role in organising workshops, seminars and academic discourse to explore ways to improve the state of theatre.

Khwairakpam Biswamitra, born on September 12, 1964, to Khwairakpam Chittaranjan and Guruaribam Brojeshori of Brahmapur Aribam Leikai, has made his name in not only theatre but also in the film world as a filmmaker, actor, producer, playwright, director and activist.

He has two academic degrees in arts and electronics & telecom engineering.

He has, so far, directed around 45 films and won several state, national and international awards.

He is also an 'A grade' artiste of All India Radio, Imphal.

Heisnam Tomba was born to theatre director Heisnam Kanhailal (Padmashri) and Heisnnam Sabitri of Keishamthong Thangjam Leirak on February 1, 1966 .

After passing class 10 in 1982, he entered theatre as an artiste in his father's theatre group, Kalakshetra.

He is now the director as well as playwright, choreographer and music director of the theatre group.

Apart from presenting many of his plays, he has also held workshops and trainings on invitation in different countries including Japan, Malaysia and Spain.

He had also co-acted with renowned theatre directors like Rustam Bharucha and artiste Aloknand Salarthan.

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