Haobam Devi Family Tree
Haobam Devi - A Lifestory

Haobam Ongbi Ngangbi Devi was a highly celebrated Indian classical singer, renowned for her mastery of the Khongjom Parva ballad tradition of Manipur. Her artistic journey was deeply rooted in her Manipuri heritage, and she dedicated her life to preserving and promoting this unique art form. Khongjom Parva is a powerful narrative singing style that recounts the heroic tales of Manipuri warriors, particularly those who fought in the AngloManipuri War of 1891. Ngangbi Devi's performances were characterized by her emotive voice, nuanced expressions, and profound understanding of the historical and cultural context of the ballads. She captivated audiences with her ability to bring these stories to life, evoking a sense of patriotism, valor, and the rich cultural tapestry of Manipur.
Beyond her vocal prowess, Ngangbi Devi was also a dedicated teacher and mentor. She imparted her knowledge and skills to numerous students, ensuring that the tradition of Khongjom Parva would continue to thrive for generations to come. Her contributions extended beyond performance and instruction; she actively worked to popularize Khongjom Parva through various platforms, including radio broadcasts, recordings, and public performances. She received numerous accolades and awards throughout her career, recognizing her significant contribution to the preservation and promotion of Manipuri culture. Her legacy remains as a beacon of artistic excellence and a testament to the power of traditional art forms in shaping cultural identity. She is remembered as a pivotal figure in the world of Manipuri performing arts, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of India.
Family and Early Years
Personal Details
- š Date of Birth: 01 August 1924.
Early Career
- Haobam Ongbi Ngangbi Devi embarked on her artistic journey with a deep passion for Manipuri music nurtured from a young age within a family deeply rooted in the performing arts. Her early years were dedicated to rigorous training in classical and traditional Manipuri musical forms, laying a strong foundation for her future endeavors.
- š¶ Early Training and Foundation
- Her initial years were marked by intense dedication to mastering various aspects of Manipuri music. She immersed herself in learning traditional instruments and vocal techniques absorbing the rich cultural heritage of her region. This period was crucial in shaping her unique artistic identity and preparing her for the challenges ahead.
- š First Major Opportunity
- Her first major opportunity arrived in the form of a performance at a prestigious state-level cultural festival. This was a significant breakthrough providing her with a platform to showcase her talent to a wider audience and gain recognition within the artistic community.
- š¤ Debut Performance and Reception
- Her debut performance at the festival was met with considerable acclaim. Her rendition of traditional Manipuri songs resonated with the audience who praised her vocal prowess and her ability to capture the essence of the music. This positive reception served as a major boost to her confidence and fueled her determination to pursue a career in music.
- š§ Challenges and Obstacles
- Despite the initial success she faced numerous challenges in her early career. The path to establishing herself in the competitive music industry was fraught with obstacles, including limited opportunities, financial constraints, and the need to balance artistic pursuits with personal responsibilities. Gaining recognition in a field dominated by established artists required perseverance and unwavering commitment to her craft.
A Journey of Recognition
Career Journey
- A luminary of Manipuri music she enriched the world with her soulful voice, devotional songs, and preservation of traditional art forms.
- š¤ Early Career & Recognition: After establishing herself as a prominent voice in All India Radio Imphal, she gained widespread recognition for her dedication to preserving and popularizing Nata Sankirtana and other traditional Manipuri musical forms.
- š¶ Defining Works: Landmark Compositions & Performances: Her renditions of devotional songs and her expertise in Nata Sankirtana earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated following. Her performances became synonymous with the rich cultural heritage of Manipur.
- š Artistic Evolution & Collaborations: She collaborated with various artists and cultural institutions further expanding her reach and influence.
- š Critical Acclaim & Public Reception: Her contributions were widely celebrated earning her numerous awards and accolades, solidifying her legacy as a leading figure in Manipuri music and culture. Her voice became deeply cherished by the public.
Achievements and Milestones
- Here's a list of awards received by Haobam Ongbi Ngangbi Devi:
- š Awards
- ā Padma Shri (2018)
- ā Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2006).
Additional Highlights
Contributions
- A luminary in the Manipuri arts scene Haobam Ongbi Ngangbi Devi's powerful vocals and captivating performances have left an indelible mark.
- Here's a glimpse into her remarkable contributions:
- š¼ Promoting Traditional Music
- ā Ngangbi Devi dedicated her life to preserving and popularizing traditional Manipuri music particularly Nata Sankirtana.
- ā She performed extensively both nationally and internationally, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Manipur.
- ā She served as a Guru training numerous students and ensuring the continuation of these art forms for future generations.
- š Cultural Preservation and Advocacy
- ā She worked tirelessly to promote and protect Manipuri culture and traditions.
- ā She was involved in various initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of modernization.
- ā She actively participated in cultural festivals and events using her platform to advocate for the preservation of Manipuri identity.
- šļø Social Advocacy through Art
- ā Ngangbi Devi used her music and performances to address social issues and promote positive change.
- ā She lent her voice to campaigns advocating for women's empowerment and social justice.
- ā Her art served as a powerful medium for raising awareness about important social causes and inspiring action.
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