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Suryamukhi Devi, a legendary Manipuri classical dancer, passed away at 85 after battling illness. She was posthumously honored with the Padma Shri this year. Known for her global performances, she played a key role in preserving Manipuri dance traditions. Tributes poured in, with former CM Biren Singh calling her a "priceless jewel" of Manipur's culture.

Key Points: Padma Shri Dancer Suryamukhi Devi Passes Away at 85

  • Padma Shri awarded posthumously after her recent illness
  • Performed globally including USSR and China
  • Trained under Guru Padma Meishnam Amubi
  • Championed Raas Leela and Lai Haraoba dance forms
2 min read

Padma Shri recipient, Manipuri classical dancer Suryamukhi Devi passes away

Renowned Manipuri classical dancer and Padma Shri awardee Suryamukhi Devi, known for global performances, dies after prolonged illness.

"With her passing, we have lost a priceless jewel of Manipur’s cultural landscape. – N. Biren Singh"

Imphal, June 29

Renowned Manipuri classical dancer and Padma Shri recipient Thiyam Suryamukhi Devi breathed her last after a prolonged illness on Sunday at her residence at Keishampat in Imphal West district.

She was 85 and a bachelor. Suryamukhi Devi was one of the 113 recipients of the Padma Shri this year. The official award ceremony was held on May 27, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. However, she was unable to attend the ceremony due to ill health. Manipur Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh had formally handed over the Padma Shri Award and citation to Suryamukhi Devi at her residence in Imphal. Chief Secretary Prashant Kumar Singh and Commissioner (Home) N. Ashok Kumar on Saturday handed over the Padma Shri citation and mementoes at her residence.

Born and brought up at Keisampat Leimajam Leikai in Imphal West district, Suryamukhi Devi recently told the media that it was due to the influence of her family members and local elders that her passion for classical dance began. The youngest among three siblings, at a very early stage of her life, she joined the Aryan Theatre as a child artist. She was one of the six Manipuri cultural delegates who represented the country and performed the Manipuri cultural dance in the erstwhile Soviet Union in 1954. Subsequently, Devi performed in China, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries.

Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh condoled her death. In a post on the X handle, he said: “Deeply saddened by the passing of Padma Shri Smt. Thiyam Suryamukhi Devi, a towering figure in Manipuri classical dance. With her passing, we have lost a priceless jewel of Manipur’s cultural landscape. Her graceful artistry and dedication to preserving our cultural heritage will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences to her family, admirers, and the cultural fraternity. May her soul rest in peace.”

Born in 1940 in Keishampat Leimajam Leikai, Imphal, she began her artistic journey under the tutelage of revered Gurus, including Padma Meishnam Amubi. She later joined the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy (JNMDA) and emerged as a vital force in promoting Manipuri dance both nationally and globally. With a career spanning over five decades, Suryamukhi Devi profoundly enriched Manipuri dance through classical forms such as Raas Leela, Lai Haraoba, and tribal folk traditions.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Heartbreaking news. She was truly a cultural ambassador for Manipur. Wish the government had recognized her contributions earlier - Padma Shri came too late in her life.
A
Aman W
Manipuri dance is one of India's hidden gems. Artists like Suryamukhi Devi ji kept our cultural heritage alive. Hope the younger generation will carry forward her legacy.
S
Sarah B
As someone who studied Indian classical dance forms, I'm in awe of her international performances in the 1950s - imagine representing India abroad at that time! What a trailblazer.
K
Karthik V
While we mourn her passing, let's also celebrate her life's work. Maybe DD National should air her documentary again - our children should know such icons beyond cricket stars and film actors.
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Nisha Z
So sad she couldn't receive the Padma Shri in person at Rashtrapati Bhavan. But at least the government made the effort to honor her at home. Rest in peace, Ma'am. Your dance was divine! ✨

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