State gears up for 2nd EIIFF
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IMPHAL, Jan 30: Manipur is gearing up to host the second edition of the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival (EIIFF) from February 6, 2025 marking the first major cultural event in the State since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023.
Organized by the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) and the Manipur State Film and Television Institute (MSFTI), with support from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, the festival aims to provide much-needed solace and artistic rejuvenation to the conflict-affected region.
The festival will feature an eclectic mix of films from across the globe including India, Germany, Australia, Iran, Norway, Syria, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Bhutan.
In the Manipur Matinee section, Manipuri cinema will take centre stage with films such as Oneness (Amata Oina)—Manipur’s first film on same-sex relationships—directed by Priyakanta Laishram, along with Sunita, Laangoi, Langdai Ama, and Una Una.
The World Lenses section will feature acclaimed Bengali films such as Manikbabur Megh, Adim, and Putulnama.
Notable screenings include Aribam Syam Sharma’s Ishanou, Lakshmipriya Devi’s Boong, Rima Das’s Village Rockstar 2, Christo Tomy’s Ullozhukku, Rajan Kathet and Sunil Pandey’s No Winter Holidays, Meena Longjam’s Andro Dreams and Sarvnik Kaur’s Against The Tide.
Sunzu Bachaspatimayum, Secretary of MSFDS, emphasized the significance of hosting an international film festival in Manipur.
"For a long time, our film community has lacked exposure to international festivals and industry events. When we launched this festival in 2022 as part of the golden jubilee of Manipuri cinema, we hoped it would become a gateway for local filmmakers to engage with the global industry. Despite the challenges posed by the civil unrest and the pandemic, we are thrilled to bring the festival back this year. Cinema has the power to heal, and we hope this event will offer a much-needed moment of unity and inspiration."
Among the Manipuri films making a landmark appearance at the festival is Oneness, directed by Priyakanta Laishram.
Speaking about its official selection, Priyakanta Laishram stated, "It is an honour to have Oneness screened at the 2nd Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival. This is not just a personal achievement but a collective milestone for Manipuri cinema. The film is a testament to the courage it takes to tell stories that challenge societal norms, especially in a State where such narratives have never been explored before. In a time when Manipur is grappling with violence and division, I believe cinema can remind us of our shared humanity. I hope this festival paves the way for more inclusive storytelling in our industry."
With its diverse programming and commitment to fostering cultural dialogue, the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival aims to re-establish Manipur as a thriving hub for cinema and artistic expression.
By bringing together filmmakers, storytellers, and audiences from different backgrounds, the festival hopes to not only celebrate cinema but also contribute to the healing of a wounded society.
Filmmakers from across India have echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the role of cinema in fostering connection and resilience.
Organized by the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) and the Manipur State Film and Television Institute (MSFTI), with support from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, the festival aims to provide much-needed solace and artistic rejuvenation to the conflict-affected region.
The festival will feature an eclectic mix of films from across the globe including India, Germany, Australia, Iran, Norway, Syria, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Bhutan.
In the Manipur Matinee section, Manipuri cinema will take centre stage with films such as Oneness (Amata Oina)—Manipur’s first film on same-sex relationships—directed by Priyakanta Laishram, along with Sunita, Laangoi, Langdai Ama, and Una Una.
The World Lenses section will feature acclaimed Bengali films such as Manikbabur Megh, Adim, and Putulnama.
Notable screenings include Aribam Syam Sharma’s Ishanou, Lakshmipriya Devi’s Boong, Rima Das’s Village Rockstar 2, Christo Tomy’s Ullozhukku, Rajan Kathet and Sunil Pandey’s No Winter Holidays, Meena Longjam’s Andro Dreams and Sarvnik Kaur’s Against The Tide.
Sunzu Bachaspatimayum, Secretary of MSFDS, emphasized the significance of hosting an international film festival in Manipur.
"For a long time, our film community has lacked exposure to international festivals and industry events. When we launched this festival in 2022 as part of the golden jubilee of Manipuri cinema, we hoped it would become a gateway for local filmmakers to engage with the global industry. Despite the challenges posed by the civil unrest and the pandemic, we are thrilled to bring the festival back this year. Cinema has the power to heal, and we hope this event will offer a much-needed moment of unity and inspiration."
Among the Manipuri films making a landmark appearance at the festival is Oneness, directed by Priyakanta Laishram.
Speaking about its official selection, Priyakanta Laishram stated, "It is an honour to have Oneness screened at the 2nd Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival. This is not just a personal achievement but a collective milestone for Manipuri cinema. The film is a testament to the courage it takes to tell stories that challenge societal norms, especially in a State where such narratives have never been explored before. In a time when Manipur is grappling with violence and division, I believe cinema can remind us of our shared humanity. I hope this festival paves the way for more inclusive storytelling in our industry."
With its diverse programming and commitment to fostering cultural dialogue, the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival aims to re-establish Manipur as a thriving hub for cinema and artistic expression.
By bringing together filmmakers, storytellers, and audiences from different backgrounds, the festival hopes to not only celebrate cinema but also contribute to the healing of a wounded society.
Filmmakers from across India have echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the role of cinema in fostering connection and resilience.