Syam laments lack of patronage for Manipuri cinema

By Our Staff Reporter
IMPHAL, Aug 29 : Veteran film-maker Aribam Syam Sharma has expressed disappointment over the lack of leaders who can take Manipuri cinema to greater heights.
Addressing the 18th foundation day of Film Forum Manipur (FFM) at Palace Compound today, the noted film-maker spoke about the difficulties being faced by people who work in film-making in Manipur.
Saying that film-makers from the State are unlikely to win Dadasaheb Phalke Award unless there are enough people who are committed to promote Manipuri cinema, Syam Sharma continued that the Governments of Assam and Karnataka take up several measures to promote their regional films.
It is very difficult to enter in the field of arts in Mani-pur as the State has a small market for cinemas, theatres and other art forms, he added.
It is imperative to encourage people who work in film-making in contemporary Manipur, the veteran film-maker said and added that Manipur is defined by its art and culture and "ignoring them would be unwise."
Syam Sharma also opined that adaptation to change is of utmost importance to promote Manipuri films and other art forms of the State.
He further said that formulation of a proper film policy and assistance from the Centre are  needed  to promote Manipuri films.
Langthabal AC MLA Karam Shyam attended the foundation day as the chief guest.
The MLA said that Manipuri cinemas are still loved by the people of Manipur though the culture of going to cinema halls has declined considerably.
Karam Shyam assured that he would extend all possible help to promote the art forms of Manipur.
FFM chairman L Surjakanta and former Vice Chancellor of Manipur University Thoidingam Tombi also attended the programme.
Later, a  Canadian award winning film "War Witch" was screened.