Busan: The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), Government of India, is playing a pivotal role in fostering a thriving film culture in Northeast India through targeted initiatives. By providing filmmakers from the region with exposure to prestigious film festivals, funding support, and skill development programs, these efforts are propelling the region’s filmmakers onto the global stage.
A testament to the success of these initiatives is Biplab Goswami’s film Lapata Ladies, which has been selected as India’s official entry for the 2024 Oscars. Goswami, a graduate of the Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRFTI) in Kolkata, hails from Tripura. Another notable figure from the region, Dominic Sangma, who participated in Berlinale Talents 2019, is gaining international acclaim with his film Rapture (Rimdogittana), which recently premiered in French theaters.
Additionally, Manipuri cinema is shining on the global stage with Boong, directed by debutant Lakshmipriya Devi, which was screened in the Discovery section of the 49th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). The film’s world premiere at TIFF marked a significant milestone for Manipur’s underrepresented cinematic scene.
The MIB’s commitment to nurturing Northeast cinema was further demonstrated by sponsoring filmmakers to attend the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. This year, the Ministry is continuing this support by sponsoring two filmmakers from each Northeastern state to participate in the 29th Busan International Film Festival, held from October 2-11, 2024.
Representing Manipur at the festival are Sunzu Bachaspatimayum, Secretary of the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) and a multiple national film award recipient, and Rinshing Ahum Chahong, a young Tangkhul filmmaker who recently won Best Director at the first Tangkhul Film Competition organized by the Tangkhul Naga Film Association.
Commenting on the Ministry’s initiative, Bachaspatimayum said, “This exposure and networking opportunity is invaluable, especially as MSFDS is preparing for the second edition of the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival, which will take place from February 6-9, 2025, in Manipur.”
Ahum Chahong, 28, expressed gratitude to the government of Manipur for selecting him to represent the state at Busan. Reflecting on the experience, he shared that attending the festival enriched his understanding of cinema as a medium for expressing his worldview.
Biplab Goswami also praised the MIB’s focus on developing Northeast cinema, noting that while the region’s filmmakers face challenges, they have much to offer Indian cinema. “This exposure to quality cinema is a noble initiative that will go a long way in nurturing cinematic talent in the region,” he said.
The future of Northeast cinema looks bright, with emerging talent making waves in various competitions. Goswami shared that in a recent scriptwriting competition, three of the top five scripts, including Lapata Ladies, were from the Northeast. “Northeast cinema is often overlooked in the larger context of Indian cinema, but it has much to contribute. Despite the challenges, filmmakers from the region are making a subtle yet significant mark,” he added.
With such promising developments, the cinematic voices of Northeast India are gaining increased recognition, both nationally and internationally, contributing to India’s rich and diverse cultural landscape.
