Wangkhem Lokendrajit Singh

🪔 About

Wangkhem Lokendrajit Singh was a renowned Indian classical dancer, guru, and choreographer, primarily recognized for his profound contributions to Manipuri dance, particularly the Nata Sankirtana tradition, as well as his innovative work in contemporary and experimental dance. Born in Manipur, India, he dedicated his life to the performing arts. His formal training in dance began with studies at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) from 1971 to 1972. It was there that he gained foundational insights into dance drama from Guru late R.K. Priyogopalsana, the founder choreographer of JNMDA. Singh further honed his choreographic skills under the tutelage of the esteemed late Maya Rao, receiving a scholarship from the Manipur State Kala Akademi for advanced training at the Natya Institute of Kathak and Choreography in New Delhi from 1978 to 1981. He also received training in Manipuri Thang-Ta, a traditional martial art form, which he later integrated into his contemporary choreographies. Throughout his illustrious career, Wangkhem Lokendrajit Singh served as a Repertory Chief at J.N.M.D.A. and was recognized as a Fulbright Scholar. He was a prolific performer and choreographer, having presented numerous dance performances internationally since 1985. His significant productions include "Moirang Shaa," which deeply explored the pure classical movements of Nata Sankirtana, and "Wainu Pareng," a work that creatively blended contemporary movements derived from martial arts and classical Manipuri forms. Beyond the stage, he also contributed to cinema as an Assistant Director for the award-winning Manipuri film "Meitei Poong." For his exceptional contributions to Indian classical dance, Wangkhem Lokendrajit Singh was honored with the Manipur State Kala Akademi Award in 2007. In 2015, he received the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for his work in Contemporary/Experimental Dance, a national recognition for eminent artists. Wangkhem Lokendrajit Singh passed away in 2018, with his 8th death anniversary observed in May 2026, leaving behind a rich legacy in Manipuri dance and choreography. Awards & Honours: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2015), Manipur State Kala Akademi Award (2007).