Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Oken Amakcham died July 19 after a long battle with illness. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh confirmed the death. The filmmaker, actor, and music director leaves behind a significant body of work. He was 62.
Born March 1, 1962, in Kongba Kshetri Leikai, Amakcham started in theatre after graduating from Dhanamanjuri College in 1981. He earned a Visharad in music from Bhatkhande Sangeet Vidyapeeth in Lucknow. His acting career took off in 1986 with Sanakhya Ibotombi's film Iche Sakhi.
Amakcham made his directorial debut with the 1992 film Khonthang. The work reached the Indian Panorama at the 1993 International Film Festival of India. He found national acclaim in 1994 when Mayophygee Macha earned the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Manipuri. Scripted by M. K. Binodini Devi, the film stands as a benchmark in regional cinema. In a social media post, the Chief Minister honored the late artist, stating he was a "towering figure of Manipuri cinema whose contributions would remain an enduring legacy."
Innovation defined his later years. Amakcham directed Lammei in 2002. This was the first Manipuri video film to see a commercial theatre release. It ushered in the digital age for the local industry. His filmography also includes Cheina, Tellanga Mamei, Nungshithel, Aroiba Bidai, and Thajabagee Wangmada.
Beyond directing, he served as Vice-Chairman of Film Forum Manipur and sat on the jury for the 58th National Film Awards. He also composed music and shot documentaries on theatre icons Heisnam Kanhailal and Ratan Thiyam. He is survived by his wife, Jenita Amakcham, and his family.
Comments