Imphal : Prominent second-generation Manipuri filmmaker, Rajkumar Kripajit Singh, has passed away. He breathed his last on Monday following a prolonged illness at his residence in Thangmeiband Lilasingh Khongnangkhong, Imphal.

Born on 29 September 1956, RK Kripa was captivated by the power of cinema and storytelling from a young age. He cherished the entire process of translating a story into a motion picture. Reflecting on his passion, Kripa once said, “I enjoyed the process of making films.

The creative process of translating a story to a screen and the ultimate thrill one feels when the film is finally released is unforgettable.”

Inspired by the international success of ‘Imagi Ningthem’ in 1981, RK Kripa ventured into filmmaking in 1983 with his first feature film, ‘Mathanggee Yeningtha’. Despite encountering production challenges that prevented its completion, Kripa persevered. In 1990, he successfully collaborated with Laimayum Surjakanta to complete ‘Ingallei’, which marked the emergence of second-generation filmmakers in Manipur.

The first generation included stalwarts such as SN Chand, Aribam Syam Sharma, Kongbrailatpam Ibohal Sharma, MA Singh, and Sanakhya Ebotombi Haorokcham.

‘Ingallei’ brilliantly portrayed the rich Manipuri ethos and traditions with literary erudition. Following its success, Kripa scripted and directed several acclaimed films, including ‘Thambal’ (1993), ‘Eigi Punshi’ (1999), ‘Lei-ee Ama’ (2000), and ‘Laibak’ (2002).

Before being drawn into the magic of cinema through his association with SN Chand, the father of Manipur Cinema, in the early 1980s, Kripa was a critically acclaimed theatre artiste. His subtle performance on screen can be seen in Ningthouba Lancha’s short film adaptation of Priyokumar Keisham’s, ‘Nongdi Tarak-Hidare. He is survived by his wife and two grown-up daughters.

The Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) mourns the loss of this gritty filmmaker, whose significant contributions to Manipuri Cinema make him a true pioneer.