Imphal: Renowned Manipuri classical dancer Thiyam Suryamukhi Devi has been awarded the prestigious Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour, on the eve of the 76th Republic Day.
At 79, Suryamukhi is among 113 unsung heroes recognized with the Padma Shri this year. She began her journey in Manipuri dance at the Jawaharlal Nehru Dance Academy, where she trained from its inception in 1954 under the guidance of legendary guru Meisnam Amubi Singh and other esteemed mentors.
In the early years of her career, she ventured beyond Manipur to collaborate with contemporary choreographers like Apunikarta, Prabhat Ganguli, and Narendra Sharma. She also trained in the Mayurbhanj style of Chhau dance under Krishnachandra Naik.
As a solo performer, Suryamukhi gained acclaim for performing compositions by her guru Meisnam Amubi Singh during the 1960s. She also took lead roles in Manipuri dance-dramas created by him, which were featured at significant cultural events, including the Tagore Centenary celebration in 1961. Later, she choreographed her own solo works such as Basanta Barnam, Sakhi Ukri, Jasoda, and Duri Sambad.
Notably, she was among the first Manipuri dancers to represent India in cultural delegations abroad during the 1950s.
Over the years, Suryamukhi has received numerous accolades, including the Manipur State Kala Akademi Award, the title Nritya Bhushan from the Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for her outstanding contributions to Manipuri dance.
