Manipur hosts 2nd National Tribal Film Festival
The 'Tribal Frames Manipur' film festival has launched in Imphal, celebrating indigenous culture and providing a platform for tribal filmmakers.
The second edition of the National Tribal Film Festival, titled 'Tribal Frames Manipur', has officially kicked off in Imphal. As a major highlight of the National Tribal Film Festival Manipur, the event aims to celebrate the rich cinematic traditions and cultural identities of various indigenous communities through the lens of film.
Held at the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) in Palace Gate, the four-day festival runs from November 12 to 15. Organized as part of the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas Pakhwada, the initiative is a collaborative effort between the Tribal Research Institute, the Department of Tribal Affairs and Hills, and the MSFDS. The ceremony was presided over by Sunzu Bachaspatimayum, Secretary of MSFDS, with Hungyo Worshang, IAS, serving as the Guest of Honour.
The opening ceremony was steeped in tradition, beginning with an elderly tribal man lighting a ceremonial fire by rubbing threads together. This symbolic act, followed by the lighting of ceremonial candles, marked the start of a festival that also featured vibrant cultural performances showcasing the deep-rooted heritage of Manipur's tribal groups.
A Platform for Peace and Indigenous Stories
Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur, attending as the Chief Guest, emphasized the importance of such gatherings in the current context of the state. He noted that showcasing the unique music, dance, and traditions of the region can help promote peace and unity within Manipur. He also assured that the government would continue to support local talent to ensure it flourishes.
For many filmmakers, the festival provides a much-needed stage to share their work. Dr. Bobby Sarma Baruah, a filmmaker from Assam, is presenting her Tiwa-language film, 'Sikaisal', which translates to 'Vidyalaya'. She expressed her gratitude for the platform, noting that tribal filmmakers often lack the visibility needed to share their organic stories with a wider audience.
"This kind of platform is very important for us. I hope this festival will continue," she remarked, highlighting the importance of indigenous cinema.
The festival also features works like 'Puinau Puidaa' by Kachangthai Gonmei from Noney district. Through these diverse films, the event seeks to preserve tribal history and foster a sense of collective harmony among the different communities of the state.