Kshetrimayum Ongbi Thouranisabi Devi

🪔 About

Kshetrimayum Ongbi Thouranisabi Devi (1934-2026) was a highly revered Indian classical dancer and author, celebrated for her profound contributions to the Manipuri dance form. Born on November 6, 1934, in Singjamei Sapam Leikai, Manipur, she dedicated her life to the preservation, promotion, and enrichment of Manipuri classical dance and culture. Her early talent was evident when she performed at the age of six, even before formal training. She received her formal training in Manipuri Ras Leela at the age of ten at Shree Govindaji Nartanalaya, where she earned the degrees of Visharad and Achariya in Manipuri Dance. She also trained under eminent gurus such as Maishnam Amubi Singh, Amudon Sharma, and H. Tomba. Thouranisabi Devi was a prominent artiste of Nata Sankirtana and was widely respected for her mastery of Ras Leela and traditional Manipuri Jagoi. She was associated with the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy for many years, serving as Senior Guru Rasdhari (from 1984), Guruhan (Head of the Ras Department, from 1993), and Pradhan Guru (Principal, from 2005) until her retirement in 2006. Her international performances included 25 shows across Canada, West Germany, London, Dubai, and the US. She also directed the ballet “Radha Sati,” the 28th production of the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy. Beyond her performing and teaching career, Thouranisabi Devi was a significant author and recording artist. She penned two influential books on Manipuri dance: “Diva Ras” (two volumes, published in 1993) and “Ras Makha Amsung Nungi Masahk” (published in 2006). She also recorded six albums for His Master's Voice (HMV), Calcutta. Her immense contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 2003, India's fourth-highest civilian award. She passed away on May 12, 2026, at the age of 91, leaving behind a rich legacy in Indian classical dance. Awards & Honours: Royal Robe, Gold Medals, State Kala Akademi Award in Nata Sankirtana (1977), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1980), Nritya Ratna (1981), Senior Fellow Award in Diva Ras (1987), Certificate of Honour (1991), Padma Shri (2003).