Imphal: Renowned classical dancer Thiyam Suryamukhi Devi of Manipur expressed heartfelt gratitude upon being conferred the Padma Shri Award for her lifelong dedication to classical dance.
The prestigious Padma Awards were announced on the eve of India’s 76th Republic Day, marking a moment of pride for the 89-year-old cultural icon.
Suryamukhi reflected on her early years, recounting her journey that began in the 1940s, a time when Hinduism flourished in the Imphal Valley, fostering a deep cultural connection to dance and arts. “I started dancing as a child under the guidance of a guru, inspired by my family and local elders,” she shared.
Raised in Keisampat Leimajam Leikai in Imphal West district, Suryamukhi joined the Aryan Theatre as a child artist and later received formal training under eminent gurus Yambem Mahavir and Padmashree Meishnam Amubi at a local school.
Her artistic career blossomed in 1952 when she became an artist at Nirtya Ashram, founded by Yambem Mahavir. Suryamukhi captivated audiences across India and abroad with her performances in Manipuri classical dance forms, including ‘Raas Leela,’ ‘Lai-Haraoba,’ and tribal folk dances.
Among her most notable achievements was representing India in the Soviet Union in 1954 as part of a six-member Manipuri cultural delegation.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh extended his congratulations, highlighting Suryamukhi’s monumental contributions to Manipuri dance. “Your dedication over five decades, including iconic performances at the Tagore Centenary and Geeta Govinda Seminar, has elevated Manipuri dance to new heights on national and international stages,” Singh posted on X, praising her achievements.
Suryamukhi’s illustrious career saw her perform in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, earning acclaim for her artistry. She fondly recalled her debut theatre performance in Modhuchandra, where she portrayed the daughter of Maharaj Bheigyachandra, a pioneer of Manipuri Vaishnavism.
However, her journey was not without challenges, as she faced societal discrimination for her involvement in the performing arts.
Over the years, Suryamukhi received numerous accolades, including the Manipur Kala Akademi Award in 1985, the Nirtya Bhusan Upadhi in 1999, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2003, and the Guru Tarunkumar Saman in 2009.
Despite the challenges, her dedication to preserving and promoting Manipuri classical dance has left an indelible legacy, inspiring generations of artists and cultural enthusiasts.
Suryamukhi expressed her gratitude for the recognition, cherishing her lifelong passion for dance. “This honor reaffirms the beauty and significance of our cultural heritage,” she said, vowing to continue inspiring the next generation to uphold the rich traditions of Manipuri classical dance.
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