North East India Film Festival Celebrates Cinematic Diversity in Imphal

Conclusion of the North East India Film Festival

Imphal, March 23: The third edition of the North East India Film Festival (NEIFF) wrapped up in Imphal on Sunday, showcasing a rich array of nine films that highlighted the cultural diversity and evolving cinematic landscape of the region.

Taking place over two days from March 21 to 22 at the TanthaPolis Cinema in Lamphel, the festival presented films across various genres and languages.

The featured films included Collage, Kangbo Aloti, Ha Lyngkha Bneng, Noi Kotha, Romantic Affairs, Toy Gun, The Check Post, Phouoibee, and Laininghal Naoria Phullo.

This event was collaboratively organized by THOUNA, the Directorate of Information & Public Relations (DIPR) of the Government of Manipur, and the All Manipur Film Producers Association, with backing from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC).

During the closing ceremony, Hungyo Worshang, IAS, Secretary of Information and Public Relations, Tourism, and PHED, praised the organizers for successfully conducting the festival despite financial challenges.

He noted the absence of dedicated funding for awards and mentioned that proposals would be considered to rectify this in future festivals.

Worshang emphasized the importance of cinema in society, advocating for realistic and compassionate storytelling, especially as Manipur transitions towards peace.

He encouraged filmmakers to transcend divisions and work towards promoting unity and social harmony.

In the awards segment, Collage was honored as Best Feature Film, while Toy Gun received the title of Best Non-Feature Film.

Monjul Baruah was awarded Best Director for Romantic Affairs. Other accolades included Best Cinematographer for Pradip Daimary (Ha Lyngkha Bneng), Best Editor for Sanjib Gogoi (Noi Kotha), Best Sound Designer for Debajit Gayan (Kangbo Aloti), and Best Screenwriter for Doren Naorem (The Check Post).

Phouoibee was granted the Jury Special Award, while Laininghal Naoria Phullo received a Special Mention.

The closing ceremony also included a masterclass led by Alexander Leo Pou and was attended by members of the organizing committee and the film community.

The festival's mission is to promote films that exhibit aesthetic and technical excellence with significant social relevance, while enhancing appreciation for the Northeast's rich cultural heritage and fostering a more inclusive regional film industry.