Imphal, November 30 2009: Even as the whole world is gearing up to observe World AIDS Day tomorrow, ISTV Network released a film based on the life story of Khundrakpam Pradipkumar, brand ambassador of Manipur AIDS Control Society (MACS) at its studio today.

Meirilakshida, the 30-minute biographical film is directed by young Staff Reporter of ISTV News, James Khangenbam.

Speaking about the film, James Khangenbam said that his film tries to depict the feelings of Persons Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) who are living in this world, which slap them different types of stigmas and discriminations.

He explained, "The film is just a tip of an iceberg.

When one looks closely upto the bottom, one will get the message what the film really wants to covey to the masses".

Lauding James Khangenbam for successfully conceiving the film, Pradipkumar while speaking in the releasing function said that he did have some hesitations when the young film maker approached him to make the film, but he okayed the proposal later, only because stigma and discrimination being faced by PLHAs are increasing day by day despite the fact that various agencies are trying to curb it.

According to Manipur AIDS Control Society (MACS), the State has 31,927 HIV positive people, including 8,053 women and Manipur is among six high HIV/AIDS prevalent States of the country.

Shot and released in Manipuri, the film is subtitled in English and it would be telecast in ISTV Network shortly.

The realising function was presided over by ISTV Network President, Kh Kuleshwar as chief guest and ISTV Network Vice-President L Dhaneshwar as functional president.

ISTV News Chief Editor, Rupachandra Yumnam and Pradipkumar himself were also members of the dais in the function.