MANIPUR: The much-awaited film festival celebrating the cinema of Northeast India has been given a green signal by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. The prestigious event is set to showcase remarkable works that reflect the vibrant culture, traditions, people, and landscapes from this unique region in India. With official approval now granted for its execution, movie enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate attending an outstanding cinematic experience showcasing some exceptional talents who have made their mark in filmmaking across northeastern states.
A crucial achievement for the northeast region of India, Imphal - Manipur's capital city is all set to host the much-awaited North East India Film Festival (NEIFF) 2024. The Department of Information and Broadcasting along with THOUNA Manipur & Film Forum Manipur have collaboratively organized this momentous event, which has been sanctioned by the Government of India. Slated from March 3rd-7th in 2024; NEIFF will be held during these five days.
During a press conference on Monday at the Directorate of Information and Public Relations auditorium, Yengkhom Nilachandra - Chairman of the organizing committee expressed his excitement. He stressed how significant it was for Manipur to host North East India Film Festival's (NEIFF) inaugural event after receiving government approval.
Nilachandra went on in detail about NEIFF’s goals: endorsing an inclusive film industry within northeast region, aiding filmmakers with unique visions and technical expertise along with showcasing tradition cultural heritage through cinema-exhibits.
The NEIFF 2024 was officially introduced and promoted through the press conference, which welcomed filmmakers and producers from eight northeastern states namely Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya,Mizoram,Nagaland,Sikkim,and Tripura. The festival is geared towards granting a venue for these movie makers to showcase their talents thus enriching the regional film industry in general.
The NEIFF 2024 is set to showcase a range of competitive films, all produced and certified by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) between January 1 and December 31, 2023. Filmmakers are being encouraged by Nilachandra to enter their work before the submission deadline on February 9th, with an official unveiling ceremony for selected films scheduled at the North East India Film Festival Directorate - located within Imphal's Manipur State Film and Television Institute complex near palace gate – taking place on February 20th.
The awards for this year comprise several categories like Best Production Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography, and Best Screenwriter along with Special Mention and the special Jury Award. The statuette of each award will be conferred alongside a citation as well as monetary rewards to encourage filmmakers in celebrating cinematic greatness.
As NEIFF 2024 approaches, excitement is mounting among filmmakers and cinema aficionados for what promises to be an enriching week filled with recognition of the varied talents emerging from Northeast India. Manipur is preparing itself as a hub for artistic expression, creativity, and celebration of North East India’s cinematic legacy.
ALSO WATCH: