Bimol inaugurates KaIFF, 'Kumhei: Punsi Wari' premiered
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, August 10 2024:
The Kadamakudy International Film Festival (KaIFF) was officially inaugurated by Inner Manipur MP Prof Bimol Akoijam, in a grand ceremony that highlighted the convergence of cinematic artistry and socio-political discourse.
The festival, which took place from August 9 to 11 under the theme Alternate Voices,' aimed to showcase films that challenge conventional narratives and explore new dimensions within the cinematic world.
The picturesque island of Kadamakudy, known for its serene backwaters and lush greenery, provided a stunning backdrop for the festival, attracting filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from across the country.
The formal inauguration, held on Saturday, was a vibrant affair, with MP Bimol Akoijam being the centre of attention.
He was warmly welcomed with traditional beating of drums, receiving a grand reception that resonated with the local culture.
His popularity in Kerala, bolstered by his impactful parliamentary speeches, drew a large crowd, with many attendees traveling from distant areas and waiting from the early hours to catch a glimpse of him.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by other esteemed dignitaries, including the Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden, Vypen MLA K N Unnikrishnan, and GP president Mary Vincent, who were the guests of honour.
The dignitaries appreciated the festival's unique vision and announced plans to develop a theatre in Kadamakudy to further nurture the region's growing interest in cinema.
Festival director Anand Haridas and convenor Father Augustine Vatolli also played key roles in the proceedings, underscoring the collaborative spirit behind the event.
The highlight of the inaugural session was the premiere screening of MP Bimol Akoijam's film, 'Kumhei: Punsi Wari' (Festivities: The Life Story), a powerful Manipuri film that captivated the audience with its profound narrative and emotional depth.
Written, directed, and edited by Akoijam himself, the film explores the intricate relationship between cinema and reality, proposing that cinema serves as a mirror reflecting the truths and lived experiences of society.
During an interactive session following the screening, Akoijam elaborated on the film's themes, explaining how his film addresses the turbulent history of Manipur, particularly the state's long struggle with the armed forces.
Through its narrative, the film collapses the boundary between the reel and the real, offering viewers an unaltered glimpse into the socio-political realities of the region.
His work has been lauded for its raw portrayal of the challenges faced by the people of Manipur, making it a significant contribution to the discourse on cinema as a tool for social change.
The festival organisers took the opportunity to express their deep solidarity with the people of Manipur, acknowledging the ongoing challenges faced by the state.
This gesture resonated with the festival's theme of 'Alternate Voices', as it underscored the importance of using cinema to highlight and address pressing social issues.
The Kadamakudy International Film Festival has set a new benchmark for cinematic events in the region, blending artistic excellence with a commitment to social justice.
As the festival continues to grow, it promises to remain a vital platform for filmmakers who are passionate about using their craft to effect meaningful change in society.
Organisers are already looking ahead to future editions, with plans to expand the festival's reach and impact by collaborating with established filmmakers, actors, and actresses, ensuring that Kadamakudy remains at the forefront of innovative and transformative cinema.
Comment
