Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey inaugurated the North East India Film Festival (NEIFF 2024) at the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) auditorium in Imphal on Sunday. In her address at the inaugural event, the Governor emphasized that the primary goal of such film festivals should be to provide a platform for filmmakers to exchange artistic and technical insights into filmmaking.
Regardless of participants’ backgrounds, be it actors, actresses, or technicians, the Governor highlighted how films bring them closer to each other. She stressed that impactful films play a crucial role in shaping society, especially the youth, by diverting them from undesirable objectives such as unrest and violence.
Governor Uikey urged filmmakers to create inspiring films that connect the youth to their religion and culture. She commended the growth of Manipuri cinema, from 35 mm black and white films to the present day, including the contribution of videos.
Expressing hope in Northeast India’s rich cultural and artistic talents, the Governor believed that the region could produce quality films to contribute positively to society amidst ongoing social change. She suggested that the folk tales of the northeast tribes, filled with stories of love and bravery, could provide excellent script material for films depicting tribal life.
Highlighting the need for proper representation of women in films, Governor Uikey appealed to producers to portray women with care, ensuring they are not merely a medium for presentation. She stressed the importance of showcasing a woman’s complete personality in accordance with cultural values.
The Governor appreciated Thauna’s efforts to promote art and culture in the northeast, anticipating that these endeavors would elevate cinema standards and encourage young artists and technicians. She also acknowledged filmmaker Aribam Shyam Sharma for his significant role in the development of Manipuri cinema, extending her best wishes for his health.
The inaugural function of the North East India Film Festival was attended by Commissioner (IPR) M Joy Singh, DM University Vice Chancellor Prof N Rajmuhon Singh, renowned filmmaker Aribam Shyam Sharma, film enthusiasts, and actors. The festival, organized by THOUNA Manipur in collaboration with DIPR, art & culture, and Film Forum, Manipur, under the sponsorship of the Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, will run until the 7th of this month, featuring the screening of eight films.
Also Read: Leave: NSCN-K (Niki) warns non-locals ‘encouraging’ LGBTQ in Nagaland