Government schemes nurture NE India's cinematic talent
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 08 2024: The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), Government of India, is actively promoting a vibrant film culture in Northeast India through various initiatives, resulting in the region's increasing visibility on the global film stage.

From offering exposure to A-grade film festivals, funding film production, and organising skill development programs, filmmakers from the Northeast are beginning to reap the rewards of these targeted interventions, said a release issued by Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) Prominent testimonies to the success of these initiatives include Berlinale Talents 2019 participant Dominic Sangma's "Rapture" (Rimdogittana) which is currently making waves in Europe, with its recent release in French theatres.

Another notable achievement for the region is the screening of "Boong", a Manipuri feature film directed by debutant Lakshmipriya Devi, at the 49th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

The film had its world premiere in the prestigious Discovery section, shining a spotlight on the underrepresented cinema of Manipur.

Following its sponsorship of filmmakers from the Northeast to participate at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, MIB has continued its commitment to nurture and develop the region's cinematic talent.

This year, the Ministry is sponsoring two filmmakers from each of the Northeastern States to attend the 29th Busan International Film Festival in South Korea, held from October 2-11, 2024.Representing Manipur at Busan are Sunzu Bachaspatimayum, Secretary of the MSFDS, a multiple national film awardee, and Rinshing Ahum Chahong, a young Tangkhul filmmaker who recently won the Best Director's Award in the first Tangkhul Film Competition organised by the Tangkhul Naga Film Association.

"The Ministry's initiative to nurture a vibrant film culture in the Northeast region is an excellent opportunity for exposure and networking especially for me as MSFDS is organising the second edition of the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival from February 6-9, 2025 in Manipur", said Sunzu Bachaspatimayum.

Ahum Chahong Rinshing (28), appreciated the Government of Manipur for recommending him as one of the representatives for the State and added that his Busan participation has enriched his concept of cinema as the medium for the expression of his worldview of life.

With these encouraging developments, the cinematic voices of Northeast India are poised to gain greater recognition both nationally and internationally, contributing to the country's diverse cultural landscape.

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