Key Points

According to the official website, the festival is being held on September 19, 20, and 21 at the Jyoti Chitraban Film Studio in Kahilipara, Guwahati.

Speaking about the festival, Union Minister L Murugan stated that it has been organised to connect with all the creators in the northeast region.

"This is the first time that such a festival is organised in Assam to connect all the creators within the northeast region. People from the media and entertainment sector, as well as renowned filmmakers, have gathered for the event. The theme is focused on the story of the land and culture," Murugan told the media.

He also shared that more than 1,500 participants will join the festival alongside the screening of nearly 100 films throughout the three-day celebrations. An award function will also be held at the festival.

"The entire week from September 17 to October 2, the nation will celebrate 'Seva Pakhwada'. During the period, all the BJP workers, government organisations, NGOs, and volunteers will organise various blood camps and medical camps. Those from the media industry have also come forward and dedicated 75 songs to the honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday," he said.

The Union Minister also spoke about how the entertainment and media sector has been contributing to the economy, further adding, "We have been focusing on taking northeastern films on a global stage."

Organised under the aegis of 'Seemanta Chetana Manchana Purvottar', the film festival "celebrates the sacred relationship between people and the land they inhabit. Rooted in the diverse traditions of Northeast India and beyond, SOUL brings to light the rituals, stories, and practices that unite communities through the worship and reverence of land, nature, and culture. This festival is a platform for filmmakers, storytellers, researchers, and communities to showcase their narratives that reflect unity in diversity -- beyond religion, beyond boundaries," the organisers stated.

- ANI