Oinam Thoiba (15 September 1954 â 4 November 2025) was an Indian Shumang Leela (courtyard play) actor and director from Manipur. He was best known for his roles in Khamnu 82 and Enamma. He was also nicknamed as "Ibai Thoiba" and "Point Kouta".
Oinam Thoiba was born on 15 September 1954 in Naharup Awang Leikai, Imphal East, Manipur. He was married and had three daughters and three sons.
Thoiba began performing Shumang Leela in 1976. He was introduced to the art form by Oja Bidhu, who was popularly known as Soibon Saba. His first play was Puya Meithaba, under the guidance of Ningombam Angouton.
He became popularly known as Ebai Thoiba after acting in the play Khamnu 82. Thoiba learned Shumang Leela from several mentors, including Ningombam Angouton, Oja Mayurdhaja, and Birjit Ngangomba.
Thoiba retired from Shumang Leela in 2017, after receiving the Best Director Award at the Shumang Leela Festival 2016âÂÂ2017, organized by Manipur State Kala Akademi.
Thoiba died on 4 November 2025, at the age of 71.
Thoiba acted in more than 100 Shumang Leela plays and directed many others in different groups. Some of his popular plays include:
Thoiba was part of several Shumang Leela groups, including:
Oinam Thoiba received several awards during his career:
Thoiba also acted in Manipuri films, including Ema Ei Leihourage, Chekla Paikhrabada, and Loktak Patki Nungshibi.