Guru Ksh. Ibetombi Devi

🪔 About

Guru Ksh. Ibetombi Devi, a revered figure in Indian classical dance, was born on March 17, 1936, in Imphal, Manipur, and passed away on October 20, 2022. Her journey in dance began at the age of twelve, under the tutelage of eminent gurus such as Padmashri Amudon Sharma, Maisnam Amubi Singh, and Atomba Singh for Classical Raas. She also received training in Maibi dance (Lai Haraoba) from Guru Ima Rajani Maibi, Pung Cholom from Guru Angou, Manipuri Jagoi from Guru Lokeshwar, and Manipuri Classical/Folk from Guru Golapi, among others. Ibetombi Devi was a pioneer, being the first female dancer from Manipur to perform internationally, showcasing Manipuri Dance across India, Australia, Indonesia, and Nepal. Her performances graced stages for dignitaries including U.S. President Eisenhower and Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. A significant contribution was her establishment of the Ibetombi Dance Center in Imphal in 1956, fostering the next generation of Manipuri dancers. She specialized in Maibi dancing, an ancient ritual dance form, and was celebrated for her portrayal of Ima Leimaren, the Great Mother Goddess of the Meiteis. Notably, she was the first female dancer to perform the Meitei Pung Cholom, a drum dance traditionally exclusive to men, on stage. Beyond her performances and academy, Guru Ibetombi Devi dedicated 32 years as a dance teacher at Banasthali Vidyapeeth in Rajasthan, where she introduced an 8-year Manipuri dance course. In 1957, at the age of 20, she made history as the first Manipuri female dancer to tour Australia, a trip facilitated by the Australian and Indian Art Councils. She was married to Manipuri dancer and musician Shri Nava Chandra Singh, and their youngest daughter, Tombi Sana, continues her legacy as an accomplished dancer. Awards & Honours: Republic Day Medal of Dance (1964), Manipur State Kala Academy award (1992), Nritya Bhushan Sahitya Parishad (1999), Guru Tarunkumar Shanman (2006).