OC Meira, also known as Oinamcha Meira (, born 19 August 1977), is an Indian filmmaker, journalist, and creative writer from Manipur. He is known for directing several Meitei language short and feature films and for his involvement in Meitei literature and journalism.
OC Meira was born on 19 August 1977 in Chana Mayai Leikai, Imphal East, Manipur. His father is Oinam Lukhoi (also known as Chana Lukhoi) and his mother is Oinam Ongbi Nungthinchaibi (also called Chana Lembi). He is married to Rajkumari Vijaya Sana, and they have a child named Lucent Oinam.
Meira's father, Chana Lukhoi, was a well-known artist in Shumang Leela (traditional Meitei courtyard theatre). Many famous artists who performed roles such as Jagat Singh, Bira Singh, Abirkhan, and Cheitei visited their home to learn from his father. As a young boy, Meira often watched these artists perform and imitated their actions with his friends, which inspired his early interest in theatre and performance.
OC Meira completed a Master of Arts (MA) in Manipuri from Assam University, Silchar.
In his youth, Meira actively took part in local functions, skits, and community programs. He was often involved in organizing games like tambola, making announcements in public programs, and helping in local events. His regular presence in community activities helped him develop skills in performance and communication.
Before becoming a filmmaker, Meira explored different artistic and cultural activities. He worked as a priest for the Meitei community, performed in Wari Leeba storytelling programs, wrote prose and poems, worked as a journalist, drew artistic sketches, wrote song lyrics, and acted in plays and Shumang Leela performances.
Despite trying many fields, Meira eventually chose filmmaking and writing as his main professions.
Meira has been active in Manipuri journalism and literature.
OC Meira is an approved artist of All India Radio Imphal. He is the founder secretary of:
He is also a member of several organizations, including:
OC Meira began his film career in 2010 when he directed his first Manipuri short film Kathokpagi Saklon, produced by Rakesh Naorem. After receiving appreciation for this film, Meira directed several other short films, including Sageigi Sanaarei, Tollabasinggi Tolen and Numit Mana Tadringei. He later directed more than eight feature films, becoming one of the active filmmakers in Manipuri digital cinema.
Some of his known films include Sakhenbi Iteima, Phongdoknadringei, Ngaina Ngaina and Eegi Khongul. All these films were produced by Rakesh Naorem, with whom Meira developed a successful collaboration.
From childhood, OC Meira remained connected with theatre and film. His artistic journey was inspired by Shumang Leela groups, MDU, and Rupmahal Theatre artists. By observing their performances, he learned acting techniques indirectly and participated in various drama groups.
His role as Jan Neta Irabot in a street play received wide applause. Through continuous work in theatre and film, Meira became one of the known filmmakers of Manipur.