North East India Film Festival 2025 begins
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, February 12 2025: Manipur edition of the 2nd North East India Film Festival (NEIFF) 2025 has been inaugurated on Wednesday at the City Convention Centre.

Organised by THOUNA, Manipur, in collaboration with Film Forum Manipur and Directorate of Information & Public Relations, the five-day festival is sponsored by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, and the National Film Development Corporation.

Speaking on the occasion, Loktak Development Authority chairman M Asnikumar Singh emphasised that cinema has long served as a mirror reflecting the realities of society.

North East India Film Festival 2025 begins

The film industry not only provides a significant source of employment but also plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage, he said.

He underscored the profound impact of cinema on society, noting that the Manipuri film industry is deeply rooted in the region's heritage and ethos.

Beyond entertainment, Manipuri cinema has highlighted societal challenges, facilitated cultural exchange, and contributed to economic growth, particularly among the youth.

Furthermore, it has played a vital role in preserving indigenous languages and reviving cultural narratives through folk traditions.

Manipur, with its rich cinematic history, has been a torchbearer of cultural expression in the Northeast and beyond, elaborated Asnikumar, who also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Manipuri cinema and ensuring its continued growth.

Prof N Lokendro, who is vice-chancellor Manipur University and a member of the presidium, expressed confidence that Manipuri films will foster cultural unity and drive the growth of the regional film industry.

He emphasised that cinema should serve as a platform to showcase the artistic and technical achievements of talented filmmakers from Northeast India.

While filmmakers from the region have earned international recognition - primarily for documentary films - this festival presents a valuable opportunity to promote high-quality cinema over the next five days, he opined.

A brochure was also released as a part of the inauguration function held in the presence of DM Community College, DM University director Prof L Hemchandra Singh, distinguished film producers, directors, and other prominent personalities from the industry.