L. Thouranishabi Devi

🪔 About

Kshetrimayum Ongbi Thouranisabi Devi, also known as Leishangthem Thouranishabi Devi, was a revered Indian classical dancer, author, guru, and cultural mentor specializing in 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 mother, Leishangthem Ongbi Ibetombimacha Devi, was a known Nata Sankirtana exponent, influencing Thouranisabi Devi's early artistic journey. Thouranisabi Devi began performing on stage at the tender age of six. She received formal training in Ras Leela at Govindaji Nartanalaya (Government of Manipur Dance College) from the age of ten, earning the degrees of Visharad and Acharya. She further honed her skills under eminent gurus such as Maishnam Amubi Singh, Amudon Sharma, H. Tomba, A. Tomba Singh, Lourembam Tombi Devi, and R. K. Tomalsana. Her mastery extended to Ras Leela, traditional Manipuri Jagoi, and Nata Sankirtana, and her iconic performances as “Rasheshwori” and “Braja Gopee” at the Shree Govindajee Temple are particularly noted. She was deeply associated with the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, where she directed the ballet production "Radha Sati" and served as Guru Rasdhari, Guruhan, and Pradhan Guru before her retirement in 2006. She also held the position of Principal at the academy. Beyond performing and teaching, Thouranisabi Devi made significant literary contributions, authoring the two-volume "Diva Ras" (1993) and "Ras Makha Amsung Nungi Masahk" (2006), both focused on Manipuri dance. She also recorded six albums for His Master's Voice (HMV). Her extensive career included performances at numerous art festivals across India and internationally in countries like Canada, West Germany, the United Kingdom, Dubai, and the USA. Thouranisabi Devi passed away on May 12, 2026, at the age of 91/92. Awards & Honours: Royal Robe, Gold Medal, Manipur State Kala Akademi Award (1977), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1980), Nritya Ratna (1981), Senior Fellowship (1987), Certificate of Honour (1991), Padma Shri (2003).