Thangjam Ibopishak

Biography

Thangjam Ibopishak was born on 15 February 1948 at Wangkhei Thangjam Leikai, Imphal. Widely regarded as one of the leading figures in contemporary Manipuri poetry, Ibopishak taught Manipuri literature at G.P. Women’s College, Imphal, until his retirement. He began writing from a young age and published his first poetry collection, Apaiba Thawai, in 1969. His poetry marks a significant departure from the work of his predecessors, rejecting ornate language in favour of a direct, hard-hitting, and satirical style. Known for its sharp social commentary, his work often explores themes of identity, social change, and the human condition amid the turbulent realities of Manipur.

Over the decades, Ibopishak has been honoured with numerous awards and recognitions for his outstanding contribution to Manipuri literature. These include the Manipur State Kala Akademi Award (1986), Yamini Sunder Gold Medal (1989) from Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, Imphal, Jananeta Irabot Mana (1997) from Naharol Sahitya Premi Samiti, Imphal, and the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award (1997) from Sahitya Akademi, New Delhi. He has also received the Kavi Sanman (2004) from Manipur Sahitya Parishad, Bishnupur Branch, Asangbam Minaketan Ningsing Mana (2005), Tayenjam Jayenta Poetry Award (2008), Manipur State Award for Literature (2009), Dr. Lamabam Kamal Kaviratna Ningsing Selgi Mana (2012), Khuraijam Phullo Sanathoi Ningsing Mana (2010), Mahakavi Anganghal Seireng Mana (2014), and the Kavya Bhusan title from Manipur Sahitya Parishad, Imphal.

Ibopishak’s published works include Apaiba Thawai (1969), Norok Patal Prithvi (1985), Bhut Amasung Maikhum (1994), Mayadesh (1999), Meegi Manam (2003), Shreemati Tomcha Babu (2007), Draupadi (2010), Nga Chanu (2012), Lamjel (2015), 68 (2017), and Numitna Chingya Thanglakle (2023). Through his sharp wit, biting satire, and fearless engagement with social and political realities, Thangjam Ibopishak has become one of the most influential and distinctive voices in modern Manipuri literature.