Manipur Playwright Oasis Sougaijam Receives Prestigious National Theatre Award

Imphal: Manipur-based playwright and director Oasis Sougaijam has been named a recipient of the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar for the 2024-25 period. The Sangeet Natak Akademi presented this national honour to recognise his excellence in playwriting and his ongoing commitment to the performing arts.

Beyond his writing, Sougaijam serves as the director and designer for The Umbilical Theatre, located in Moirangkhom Sougaijam Leikai. His selection for the award highlights both his individual creative achievements and the deep-rooted theatrical traditions thriving within Manipur.

Former Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh publicly celebrated the news on social media. In his message, he expressed his congratulations to the artist and stated, "wishing him continued success in his artistic journey and urging greater laurels for the state." The local cultural community has echoed this sentiment, viewing the accolade as a major milestone for the regional theatre scene.