'Films projecting Manipuri culture drawing global attention'
Source: Chronicle News Service

Panaji, November 25 2022: Manipuri films projecting Manipuri culture and way of life have always drawn global attention and that has not changed a bit throughout the 50 years long journey of Manipuri Cinema till today.

Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) secretary Sunzu Bachaspatimayum made the remark during a press conference with Manipur delegates attending the ongoing 53rd International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.

He pointed out that the internationally acclaimed Manipuri films such as 'Imagi Ningthem', 'Ishanou', 'Loktak Lairembee' or 'Look at the Sky' are projections of the Manipuri society, culture and way of life.

He expressed gratitude to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, National Film Development Corporation and IFFI for recognising and honouring the 50 years old Manipuri Cinema by giving a special section in the 53rd IFFI.

He pointed out that Manipur started celebration of the golden jubilee since April 9 last year and the ministry of information and broadcasting, directorate of film festivals under the ministry have financially supported and assisted the year-long golden jubilee celebration.

Throwing light on the history of Manipuri Cinema, Sunzu said that Manipur attempted making its first film feature as early as 1948 in Hindi language considering the commercial aspect.

The attempt failed and more than 20 years later in 1971, SN Chand took the risk and made the first Manipuri feature film.' However, another film titled 'Matamgee Manipur', produced by a businessman named Karam Manimohan and directed by Bengali filmmaker Debkumar Bose was released in 1972 ahead of 'Brojendragee Luhongba', the film by SN Chand.

SN Chand's film was released in 1973 some months after 'Matamgee Manipur'.

However, SN Chand is now remembered as father of Manipuri Cinema as he is the first Manipuri film director, he said.

Taking part in the press conference, Film Facilitation Officer (Eastern Region) of NFDC, Alexander Leo Pou stated, "Our films are the window to our culture, politics, economy and exotic way of life".

He also exuded confidence that writers, producers, directors and those associated with filmmaking in Manipur will continue to make films thatspeak beyond the frame.

Chairman of Film Forum Manipur Laimayum Surjakanta, renowned Manipuri actor Kangabam Tomba, renowned filmmaker Oken Amakcham, director of 'Look At The Sky' Ashok Veilou, grandson of first Manipuri film director SN Chand, Sapam Rajiv were also present during the interaction with the media.

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