IMPHAL: In a glittering ceremony held at the Palace Auditorium in Imphal on Saturday, film aficionados and admirers commemorated the 50th anniversary of Manipuri cinema.
Celebrating the outstanding achievements of Manipur cinema, the event saw Governor Anusuiya Uikey bestowing the 15th Manipur State Film Awards 2023.
Governor Uikey delivered a heartfelt tribute to the evolution of Manipuri cinema, recognising its journey from traditional 35 mm black-and-white films to embracing the advancements of video technology in recent years.
She also stressed on the pivotal role played by the Manipur State Film Awards, established in 1984, in nurturing and honouring talent within the state’s cinematic realm.
Highlighting the awards’ significance, Governor Uikey noted their inspiration from the prestigious National Film Awards, serving as a beacon for excellence across various cinematic genres.
She hailed the awards for fostering creativity and innovation within Manipur’s film industry, encouraging filmmakers to push boundaries and explore new frontiers of cinematic expression.
The ceremony also paid tribute to Aribam Syam Sharma, a venerable figure in Manipur cinema and recipient of the esteemed Manipur State Film Development Society MSFDS Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.
Sharma, revered for his multifaceted contributions as a director, actor, and music composer, stands as a towering figure in Manipuri cinema.
His seminal work Imagi Ningthem (My Son, My Precious) has earned widespread acclaim on both national and international stages.
Sharma, in his address, stressed on the importance of inclusivity within the Manipur film festival.
He urged organisers to transcend language barriers, advocating for a festival that embraces the diverse linguistic and cultural tapestry of Manipur.
In conjunction with the awards ceremony, Governor Uikey also inaugurated a captivating photo gallery at the SN Chand Cine Archive and Museum, showcasing the rich heritage of Manipur’s cinema.
Named after SN Chand, the first director from the state to release a feature film, Brojendragee Luhongba (1971), the archive serves as a vital repository for conserving and preserving Manipur’s cinematic legacy.
The gallery features archival works, including films and photographs of eminent personalities in the state’s film industry, further solidifying Manipur’s position as a thriving hub of cinematic excellence.
