Manipuri cinema reflects people's identity and resilience: Guv Bhalla
Imphal, May 28
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Thursday said that Manipuri cinema serves as a powerful medium of storytelling and cultural expression, reflecting the aspirations, struggles, identity, and resilience of the people.
The Governor said that films from the state have consistently showcased Manipur's rich cultural heritage and social realities while also connecting audiences beyond the region through meaningful narratives and artistic excellence.
Addressing the award presentation ceremony of the 16th Manipur State Film Awards (MSFA), 2024 edition, at the Palace Auditorium of the MSFDS, the Governor said that the strength of Manipuri cinema lies in its rootedness.
He urged young filmmakers to preserve local stories, languages, traditions, and values while exploring new perspectives and innovative cinematic techniques.
Bhalla appreciated the contribution of filmmakers, actors, writers, technicians, critics, researchers, and all others associated with the growth of Manipuri cinema.
Addressing the function, the Chief Minister stated that cinema plays an important role in shaping human motivation and social values.
He said that despite challenges and a smaller audience base, the Manipuri film industry should continue striving for growth and greater recognition beyond the state.
Singh also expressed support for the promotion and strengthening of Manipuri cinema.
As part of the event, the official award catalogue was released, and the gathering witnessed a demonstration of the Manipuri martial art form, Thang-Ta, by the Huyen Lallong Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association.
The MSFDS Lifetime Achievement Award 2024 was conferred on Ngangbam Swarnajit Singh by the Governor in recognition of his pioneering role as Manipur's first professional artist in cinema.
The Governor, along with the Chief Minister and the Art & Culture and Tourism Minister, Govindas Konthoujam, also distributed awards in the non-feature and feature film categories to the winners.
Organised by the MSFDS, the award is the highest state honour in Manipuri cinema and celebrates excellence, creativity, and outstanding contributions to the film industry.
The award aims to encourage artistic achievement, promote creativity, and support the continued growth of the Manipuri film industry.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good to see the CM acknowledging the challenges. But the real test is whether they actually allocate more budget for film infrastructure in Manipur. So many talented artists but limited screens and distribution outside the state. Need action, not just speeches.
As someone from the Northeast, I'm really proud to read this. Manipuri cinema has always been raw and honest — it shows the struggles, beauty, and resilience of our people. Shoutout to all the filmmakers keeping our languages and traditions alive. ❤️
Honestly, Manipuri films deserve way more love from the rest of India. The storytelling is so grounded — not just masala entertainment. I've watched some on OTT and they left a mark. Hope the Lifetime Achievement Award for Ngangbam Swarnajit Singh inspires more artists.
Beautiful to see Thang-Ta being performed at the awards — martial arts and cinema are both such powerful expressions of identity. Manipur has so much to offer the world if given the right platforms. Jai Hind 🇮🇳
It's great that the Governor acknowledged the rootedness of Manipuri cinema. But I hope the centre also steps up to support these regional industries financially and through better distribution networks. We have a diverse film culture in India — let's not let it remain hidden.
M