Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: Dr. Pukhrambam Lilabati Devi, an assistant professor in the Department of Dance and Music at Manipur University, has been named a recipient of the National Award to Teachers 2026. The Ministry of Education selected her as one of 21 educators from higher educational institutions and polytechnics across India. She is one of only two winners from the Northeast, sharing the honor with Prof. Ankuran Dutta of Guwahati University.
She claims extensive expertise in dance, holding a PhD and a Master of Performing Arts from the University of Hyderabad. Her doctoral research, titled "A Pedagogic Study of Two Dance Forms: A Case Study of Manipuri and Bharatanatyam," examined the teaching methods of Indian classical traditions. Her background includes training at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy in Imphal and Kalakshetra in Chennai.
The award ceremony takes place at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on September 5, 2026. Winners receive a silver medal, a certificate of merit, and Rs 50,000. Former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh celebrated the news. He stated the award is a "matter of pride for Manipur" and noted that it brings national recognition to the state's artistic traditions.
Devi is a decorated academic. She previously received the Manipur State Kala Akademi Young Talent Award and holds Top-Grade Artist status from Prasar Bharati. Manipur University officials praised her ongoing dedication to the arts. She continues to document everything from Lai Haraoba to the technical aspects of performance, ensuring the future of Manipuri dance remains secure.
Comments