Governor distributes 15th Manipur State Film Awards
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, April 27 2024: Governor of Manipur Anusuiya Uikey on Saturday distributed the 15th Manipur State Film Awards, 2023, at Palace Auditorium of Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) in Imphal East district.

A release by PRO Raj Bhavari conveyed that the Governor handed over MSFDS Lifetime Achievement Award 2023 to Moirangthem Nilamani Singh, a prolific film personality, for his exceptional contributions to Manipuri cinema.

Eminent film personality of Manipur and recipient of MSFDS Lifetime Achievement Award 2010, Aribam Syam Sharma was also felicitated at the event, it informed.

Best voice-over/narration award was presented to revered playback singer in Manipuri cinema Chongtham Kamala and the Governor also handed over awards to the winners in different categories of Manipuri and Tribal Cinema during the award presentation ceremony, it added.

Speaking after the presentation ceremony, Governor Anusuiya Uikey stated that Manipuri cinema has survived for more than four decades, starting with 35 mm black and white films.

She said that the Manipur State Film Awards has been an integral part of the cinematic practices of our state since 1984, it continued.

Inspired by the prestigious National Film Awards, these awards recognise and honour excellence in various categories, reflecting diverse talents and contributions, he said, adding that despite facing many challenges including limited resources and technical constraints, our leading filmmakers are carrying out their work with unwavering determination.

Stating that good films have an impact on the society and is very effective in building the character of young minds, she appealed to the filmmakers for producing good films which will inspire the youth to stand up for righteousness and help in achieving glory at the national level.

"Lauding the efforts made by the organisers of the event, Governor Anusuiya Uikey observed that such film award ceremonies will boost the morale of the filmmakers, directors and artistes of the state.

She expressed confidence that the efforts of MSFDS will definitely help in raising the standards of Manipur Cinema.

The Governor also wished the award winners success in their future endeavours," it mentioned.

On the situation in the state over the last one year, she appealed to all to contribute in resolving the issue and bring peace and normalcy so that the aged-old tradition of peaceful co-existence can be maintained.

Earlier, the Governor opened a photo gallery and inspected SN Chand Cinema Archives and Museum at the upper floor of the Palace Auditorium, it also stated, adding that the chief secretary Vineet Joshi and Art & Culture Commissioner M Joy Singh attended among others in the ceremony.

Among the recipients were Moirangthem Nilamani, who received Lifetime Achievement Award, and Rajmani Ayekpam, who was honored as the Best Film Critic.

In the film categories,"Eigi Nupi Tamnalai" was named Best Feature Film, while "Samadon," directed by Inaocha Khundrakpam, won Best Debut Film by a Director.

"Tharoi Ahambagi Mahao" was recognised as the Best Popular Film for Wholesome Entertainment, and "I Hanunghaoga (Let Me Return)", a Tangkhul film, received the award for Best Film in dialects other than Meeteilon.

Ningthoujam Ojitbabu won Best Director for "Eigi Nupi Tamnalai" and Seema KS Awungshi was honoured with the sward of Best Art Director for "I Hanunghaoga (Let Me Return)".

Kshetrimayum Daya and Ithoi Oinam were awarded Best Actor (Male) and Best Actor (Female), respectively.

Tarung Wang won Best Cinematography for "Khullaksa" and Khundrakpam Sanjit received Best Editing award for "Eigi Nupi Tamnalai".

In music, Nanao Sagolmang and Tenao HD were honoured for Best Music Direction (Song) and Best Music Direction (Background Score), respectively.

Sorri Senjam and Thongam Loijingkhombi were awarded Best Male and Female Playback Singers.

Special categories included recognition for films focusing on sports and social issues, with "Iron Women of Manipur" winning Best Film.

"Eewai" received Best Short Film, while "Lairaba" was honoured with the Best Music Video award.

Comment