Khaidem Lokeshwar Singh

🪔 About

Khaidem Lokeshwar Singh was a distinguished figure in Indian classical dance, born in Imphal in 1920. His early training in classical Manipuri dances was under the guidance of his father, the late Khaidem Khoidong Singh. He further honed his skills and deepened his understanding of the art form by studying with revered Gurus such as Ojha Chaoba Singh, Khoidum Sharma, and Tharongoubi Devi. Beyond dance, he also acquired proficiency in playing the Pung, a traditional Manipuri drum, under the tutelage of his Gurus, showcasing his comprehensive grasp of Manipuri performing arts. Throughout his illustrious career, Shri Lokeshwar Singh dedicated himself to teaching, performing, and promoting Manipuri dance. He shared his expertise in various cultural centers, including New Delhi and Bombay. A significant and impactful period of his professional life was spent at the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipuri Dance Academy in Imphal. Here, he made vital contributions to the development and curriculum of the Academy, eventually rising to the esteemed position of a senior Guru and the head of its Ras Department. In this role, he played a crucial part in shaping the next generation of Manipuri dancers and preserving the authenticity of the Ras tradition. Khaidem Lokeshwar Singh was also a respected scholar and author, contributing to the academic understanding of Manipuri dance through his book titled "Manipuri Ras". His profound dedication and contributions to the art form were widely recognized and celebrated with numerous prestigious accolades. He received a royal award from the then Maharaja of Manipur in 1950, followed by the Manipur Kala Akademi Award in 1975, and the Nritya-Ratna from the Manipuri Sahitya Parishad in 1976. For his exceptional eminence in the field of dance and his significant role in its enrichment and propagation, Khaidem Lokeshwar Singh was honored with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Manipuri Dance in 1985, the highest Indian recognition in performing arts. His teaching legacy is evident through his notable students, including Suryamukhi and Phanjoubam Iboton Singh, who have continued to uphold and propagate the rich traditions of Manipuri dance. Awards & Honours: Royal award from the Maharaja of Manipur (1950), Manipur Kala Akademi Award (1975), Nritya-Ratna of the Manipuri Sahitya Parishad (1976), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Manipuri Dance (1985).