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{{Short description|Indian playwright, folk narrator and cultural activist}}
{{Contains special characters|Meitei}}
{{About|an Indian artist|other uses|Oinam Lukhoi (disambiguation){{!}}Oinam Lukhoi}}

'''Oinam Lukhoi''' ({{Script|Mtei|ꯑꯣꯏꯅꯥꯝ ꯂꯨꯈꯣꯏ}}),<ref>{{Cite web|title=Renowned writer Chana Lukhoi no more : 30th dec24 ~ E-Pao! Headlines|url=https://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=9..301224.dec24|access-date=2025-11-06|website=e-pao.net}}</ref><ref name=":8">{{Cite web|title=Chana Lukhoi condoled : 06th jan25 ~ E-Pao! Headlines|url=https://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=16..060125.jan25|access-date=2025-11-06|website=e-pao.net}}</ref><ref name=":9">{{Cite web|title=IACAM award adorns Chana Lukhoi : 27th oct06 ~ E-Pao! Headlines|url=https://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=7..271006.oct06|access-date=2025-11-06|website=e-pao.net}}</ref> also known as '''Oinamcha Tunan''', popularly known as '''Chana Lukhoi''' ({{Script|Mtei|ꯆꯅꯥ ꯂꯨꯈꯣꯏ}}, 10 April 1950<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|last=HYNews|title=Chana Lukhoi to be Honoured with Dr. Thiyam Suresh Literary Award 2023|url=https://hynews.in/article/state/chana-lukhoi-to-be-honoured-with-dr-thiyam-suresh-literary-award-2023/https%3A%2F%2Fhynews.in%2Farticle%2Fstate%2Fchana-lukhoi-to-be-honoured-with-dr-thiyam-suresh-literary-award-2023%2F4467|access-date=2025-11-06|website=hynews.in|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":10">{{Cite web|title=Iboyaima Award 2023 presented to Chana Lukhoi : 13th apr23 ~ E-Pao! Headlines|url=https://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=32..130423.apr23|access-date=2025-11-06|website=e-pao.net}}</ref> – 29 December 2024), was an Indian [[playwright]], folk narrator, and cultural activist from [[Manipur]]. He was a leading figure in [[Shumang Leela]], a traditional Manipuri courtyard theatre form. Over his long career, he wrote more than 200 plays and received many awards for his contribution to [[Meitei culture|Meitei art]], [[Meitei literature|literature]], and [[Meitei culture|culture]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|last=Admin|first=IT Web|date=2024-12-29|title=Renowned writer Chana Lukhoi passes away at 74|url=https://www.imphaltimes.com/news/renowned-writer-chana-lukhoi-passes-away-at-74/|access-date=2025-11-06|website=News from Manipur - Imphal Times|language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web|title=Chana Lukhoi The man from the East|url=https://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=features.Profile_of_Manipuri_Personalities.Chana_Lukhoi_The_man_from_the_East|access-date=2025-11-06|website=e-pao.net}}</ref>

== Early life and education ==

Chana Lukhoi was born on 10 April 1950 in Oinam Tunan, a locality in [[Imphal East district]], Manipur. He was the son of Oinam Mani and Irungbam Ningol Amu Leima. His grandfather, Oinam Sanghai, was also known for narrating [[Meitei folktales]]. Lukhoi studied at Lamlai High School in Pungdongbam, where he was popular for his public speaking and leadership skills. During his school years, he was elected as the general secretary of the school and was admired for his [[Eloquence|oratory]].<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":4" /><ref name=":10" />

He began learning traditional Meitei storytelling under Ch. Hera, and later studied [[Meitei folklore|Meitei folk traditions]] from Pandit Kh. Deva Singh of Thongjao, P. Mohan of Yairipok Poirou Khongjil, and Madhov Pandit of Toubungkhok. By the age of twelve, he had already become known as a folk narrator and began performing traditional Meitei stories (Puya Wari) across [[Manipur]], [[Meitei people in Assam|Assam]], [[Meitei people in Tripura|Tripura]], and even in [[Meitei people in Bangladesh|Bangladesh]].<ref name=":2" />

Chana Lukhoi married Kaidem Ningol Lembi (Nungthilchaibi). They had two sons and two daughters. From a previous marriage, he had three sons—Okensana (Punshi), Lamjing, and [[OC Meira]]—and two daughters, Mangalleima and Linthoinganbi. He also had a stepdaughter named Langlen from his second marriage to Kala, daughter of Kantajit.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":4" /><ref name=":10" />

He lived with his family at Chana Mayai Leikai, Imphal East district. Outside his writing, his hobbies included reading, gardening, and spending time with children in his neighborhood.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":4" /><ref name=":10" />

== Career ==

=== Beginnings as folk narrator ===

Lukhoi started as a folk tale narrator in the [[Wari Leeba]] tradition, which draws from epics like the [[Mahabharata]] and [[Ramayana]] in the [[Meitei Vaishnavism|Vaishnav religion]]. His storytelling talent brought him wide recognition across [[Meitei diaspora|Manipuri-speaking regions]].<ref name=":2" />

In 2003, he received the Anji Cultural Award from Anji Cultural Academy, [[Imphal]], and the Khumanthem Kaomacha Memorial Gold Medal from the [[Manipuri Sahitya Parishad]] for his contributions to [[Meitei folklore|Meitei folk culture]].<ref name=":2" />

=== Playwriting and Shumang Leela ===

From around 1980, Chana Lukhoi began writing scripts for [[Shumang Leela]] and [[stage play]]s. His first play, Eegi Nong, was controversial and was once banned by the [[Government of Manipur]] for allegedly promoting armed movements. He was briefly imprisoned, during which he wrote another play titled Nongankhidraba Ahing.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":1">{{Cite web|date=2024-12-29|title=Manipur's renowned writer Chana Lukhoi passes away at 74|url=https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipurs-renowned-writer-chana-lukhoi-passes-away-at-74-1145829-2024-12-29|access-date=2025-11-06|website=India Today NE|language=hi}}</ref>

Over the years, Lukhoi became one of the most respected Shumang Leela playwrights. His works often focused on social issues, Manipuri traditions, and human emotions.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":1" /> His major plays include:<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":3">{{Cite web|title=Renowned writer Chana Lukhoi no more|url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2024/12/29/IMPHAL-Dec-29-Manipur-s-eminent-writer-Oinam-Lukhoi-popularly-known-as-Chana-Lukhoi-passed-away-on-Decembe.html|access-date=2025-11-06|website=www.thesangaiexpress.com|language=en}}</ref>

* Sana-patki Thariktha

* Chaina-pung

* Hingnabagi Dabi

* Leishabigi Machado

* Eegi Nong

* Keishamthong Thoibi

* Love 2000

* Shabi Shanou Express

* Nongankhidraba Ahing

* Kangleipakta 1709<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":6">{{Cite web|title=Many condole Chana Lukhoi : 30th dec24 ~ E-Pao! Headlines|url=https://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=14..301224.dec24|access-date=2025-11-06|website=e-pao.net}}</ref>

In total, he wrote more than 200 plays, many of which were staged across Manipur. His scripts won 18 Best Script Awards and 9 Second Best Script Awards from the Manipur State Kala Academy and the Manipur State Shumang Leela Council (MSSLC).<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" /><ref name=":4" /><ref name=":6" />

Lukhoi also wrote for [[All India Radio]] (AIR) Imphal and [[Doordarshan Kendra]] (DDK) Imphal,<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":7">{{Cite web|title=Chana Lukhoi named for Iboyaima Award|url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2023/4/11/By-Our-Staff-ReporterIMPHAL-Apr-10-The-Manipur-State-Shumang-Leela-Council-MSSLC-has-informed.html|access-date=2025-11-06|website=www.thesangaiexpress.com|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":9" /> producing several radio plays and serials. He contributed scripts for government departments such as [[family welfare]], [[science and technology]], and MACS.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":4" />

== Literary contributions==

Apart from playwriting, Lukhoi wrote for newspapers and magazines. He was a regular columnist in the [[Meitei language]] edition of [[The Sangai Express]],<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":4" /> under the column Chentharakliba Eechel, which appeared every Friday. His essays and prose focused on [[Meitei culture]], moral values, and literature.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" />

His literary works include:<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":5">{{Cite web|title=Chana Lukhoi listed for award : 27th apr23 ~ E-Pao! Headlines|url=https://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=45..270423.apr23|access-date=2025-11-06|website=e-pao.net}}</ref>

* Charei Huimadon Leima (Drama)

* Eegi Nong (Shumang Leela)

* Sanapatki Thariktha (Shumang Leela)

* Changing Lairembi (Laichatlon)

* Hotel Boy (Radio Play)

* Nupi Landa Thouna Phabising (Essay)

* Shaknaiba 12 (Biography)<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":5" />

He also wrote film scripts for Meitei movies such as Keishamthong Thoibi, Sekmai Turel, Bora Uchi, Pacha, and Nungshibi.<ref name=":0" />

== Awards and recognition ==

Chana Lukhoi received numerous awards for his contributions to Meitei art and culture. Among them are:

* IACAM Award (2006): Presented by the Indigenous Art and Culture Association, Manipur, in memory of Shijagurumayum Nilbir Sharma Shastri. He was the first recipient.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":9" />

* Nongthombam Birendrajit Award (Manipur State Shumang Leela Council)<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":7" />

* Iboyaima Shumang Leela Award<ref name=":7" />

* Peeba Chingmi Tammi Nungshi Khudol Award (Meetei National Front, Kangleipak)<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":7" />

* IKAM Award (Manipuri Development Trust, Bangladesh)<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":7" />

* Khumanthem Kaomacha Ningshing Sanagi Takaman (Manipuri Sahitya Parishad)<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":6" /><ref name=":7" />

* Anji Cultural Award (2003)<ref name=":2" />

* Thokchom Iboyaima Award (2023): Given by the Manipur State Shumang Leela Council, with a cash prize of ₹50,000, citation, and shawl.<ref name=":7" /><ref>{{Cite web|title=MSSLC awards Chana Lukhoi|url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2023/4/13/By-Our-Staff-ReporterImphal-Apr-12-The-Manipur-State-Shumang-Leela-Council-MSSLC-observed-the.html|access-date=2025-11-06|website=www.thesangaiexpress.com|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":10" />

* Dr. Thiyam Suresh Literary Award (2023): Conferred by the Patriotic Writers’ Forum (PAWF), Manipur, in recognition of his literary work.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":5" />

He also received numerous state honors and recognition for his role in promoting Manipuri theatre.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":10" />

== Affiliations and teaching ==

Lukhoi was a member of the Kangla Religious Committee, [[Kangla Fort]] Board, and the Academic Council of Manipur University of Culture (MUC). He served as a Visiting Guru in the Dance Department of the university, mentoring many young artists.<ref name=":4" /><ref name=":10" />

He participated in cultural exchange programs in [[Meitei people in Bangladesh|Bangladesh]] and [[Meitei people in Myanmar|Myanmar]], where he promoted [[Meitei tradition]]s and the art of Shumang Leela.<ref name=":2" />

== Later activities ==

In May 2022, he participated in the Manipuri Cultural Festival 2022, held at Chana Pukhri Mapal, [[Imphal East]]. The event was organized by the Chana Lukhoi Art Centre (CLAC) and the Patriotic Writers’ Forum (PAWF). During the event, Lukhoi emphasized the importance of safeguarding traditional art forms for future generations.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Manipuri Cultural Festival-2022 kicks off|url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2022/5/11/IMPHAL-May-11A-3-day-Manipuri-Cultural-Festival-2022-kicked-off-today-at-Chana-Pukhri-Mapal-in-Im.html|access-date=2025-11-06|website=www.thesangaiexpress.com|language=en}}</ref>

== Death ==

Chana Lukhoi passed away on 29 December 2024 at his residence in Chana village, [[Imphal East]], after a long illness. He was 74 years old.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" /><ref name=":3" />

His death was widely mourned in Manipur. Tributes were offered by organizations such as the Communist Party of India (Manipur State Council), Uttra Shanglen Sana Konung, Manipur Students’ Federation (MSF), Manipuri Sahitya Parishad, Sanamahi Laining Inat Chaokhat Lup (SALAI-LUP), and International Salai Punsikol (ISP). Memorial meetings were held across the state, including at Cheingak-Cheisu and Manipur Sahitya Parishad, Imphal, where members observed moments of silence in his honor.<ref name=":6" /><ref name=":8" /><ref>{{Cite web|title=Demise of Chana Lukhoi condoled : 31st dec24 ~ E-Pao! Headlines|url=https://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=Snipp9..311224.dec24|access-date=2025-11-06|website=e-pao.net}}</ref>

== See also ==
* [[Oinam family]]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}
{{Notelist}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Lukhoi, Chana}}
[[Category:Indian male writers]]
[[Category:People from Manipur]]
[[Category:Indian dramatists and playwrights]]
[[Category:Indian male actors]]
[[Category:Meitei people]]
[[Category:1950 births]]
[[Category:2024 deaths]]

Chana Lukhoi - Revision history

DwainKilgore21: Made new pg