The Last Step: Celebrating Manipuri Dance and Its Untold Struggles

Global Media *

The Last Step is an award-winning Manipuri short film that delves into the art, culture, and harsh realities faced by dancers in Manipur. Directed by a debut filmmaker who is also a trained dancer and alumnus of the Jawaharlal Nehru Dance Academy, the film offers an authentic glimpse into the lives of artists balancing passion with struggle.

Lead actresses Rabina Kolom and Daina Laitonjam, both experienced dancers and background performers in Manipuri cinema, bring powerful and genuine performances that add depth to the story.

The film has won Best Women’s Film at the Sittanavasal International Film Festival 2025, received a nomination at the IAWRT Asian Women’s Film Festival, New Delhi, and was an official selection at the Diversity Film Festival, Los Angeles.

This film is a heartfelt tribute to Manipuri dancers and their unwavering spirit amidst challenges.

The Last Step is now streaming for free on Cicada Film Production’s official YouTube channel.

Watch it here: https://youtu.be/-MzV5qNTNCE?si=SQ36Rtkrmen6AzsL