NE India Film Festival gets underway
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, March 03 2024: Governor Anusuiya Uikey inaugurated the first North East India Film Festival (NEIFF 2024) in a vibrant ceremony held at the auditorium of Manipur State Film Development Society, Palace Compound, here on Sunday.

The festival, jointly organised by THOUNA Manipur, Film Forum Manipur, and the Directorate of Information Public Relations, aims to promote the growth of a vibrant and inclusive film industry in North East India, foster artistic and technical exchanges among filmmakers, drew participants from diverse backgrounds, underscoring the unifying power of cinema.

In her inaugural address, Governor Anusuiya Uikey underscored the transformative impact of cinema on society, particularly its role in youth development and character building.

She emphasised the potential of quality films to inspire and connect individuals to their cultural roots, urging filmmakers to craft narratives that resonate with religious and cultural values.

She commended the evolution of Manipuri cinema, from its humble beginnings in black and white of 35 mm to its current digital landscape.

She highlighted the rich cultural heritage of North East India, urging filmmakers to draw inspiration from tribal folklore to create compelling stories of love and bravery.

Expressing confidence in the festival's ability to galvanise the region's artistic community, the Governor lauded the efforts of Thouna in promoting art and culture in the North East and stressed the importance of portraying women authentically in films, advocating for nuanced depictions that honour their complete personalities.

Eminent filmmaker Aribam Syam Sharma, recognised for his contributions to Manipuri cinema, echoed Anusuiya Uikey's sentiments, emphasising film's role as a conduit for cultural understanding and mutual respect.

He underscored the festival's potential to encourage budding filmmakers and elevate the region's cinematic landscape.

"Film is an art of expression that shows the concept, value, life and existence of the human society.

It shows the culture of a society.

Manipur has over 40 different languages and organising such festivals will encourage more filmmakers to come forward and promote the art form," he expressed.

The festival, which will run until the March 7, promises a diverse line-up of eight films from Assam, Manipur and Meghalaya, showcasing the cultural richness of North East India.

Romi Meetei's "Eikhoigee Yum" (Manipuri) and AC Rinshing's "Samkhok" (Tangkhul) were screened on the first day of the festival.

IPR commissioner M Joy, DM University vice-chancellor professor N Ra-jmuhon, and several actors participated in the inaugural function.

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