Phanjoubam Iboton Singh

🪔 About

Phanjoubam Iboton Singh, born in 1951 in Durgabol village, Assam, is a distinguished figure in Indian classical dance, primarily recognized for his profound contributions to Manipuri dance. His artistic journey began with an initiation into Pung (Meitei drum) playing in Nata Sankartana, guided by Meitram Lalbabu Singh and Meinam Mangol Singh. He further honed his Pung skills under the tutelage of Soram Budha Singh and Sanasam Yaima. Singh's specialization in Manipuri Ras was cultivated through training with esteemed gurus such as K. Lokeshwar Singh, G. Ibopishak Sharma, R. K. Sanayaima Singh, and L. Thambalngoubi Devi. He holds a post-graduate diploma in both Ras and Pung from the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy in Imphal. Throughout his illustrious career, Phanjoubam Iboton Singh has excelled as both a performer and a teacher of Manipuri dance, as well as a skilled Pung player. He commenced his teaching career at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy in 1984, eventually rising to the position of Pradhan Guru at the institution. His performances have graced stages not only across India but also internationally, with extensive tours in countries including China, South Korea, Greece, Spain, Italy, France, and Germany. Beyond his performance and teaching, Singh is also an author, having penned two books in Manipuri: "Manipur Ras Amashung Atei Krishna Lilasing" and "Maharas Amashung Kunjaras Punglon." His significant contributions to Manipuri dance have been widely acknowledged through numerous accolades, including the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2010. Other honors include the Manipur State Kala Akademi Award, the Gold Medal of the Manipur Sahitya Parishad, and the Nitya Bhushan of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad of Assam. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2010), Manipur State Kala Akademi Award, Gold Medal, Nitya Bhushan.