Imphal, March 22 (NationPress) The 3rd North East India Film Festival (NEIFF) 2026 wrapped up in Imphal on Sunday after two days filled with cinematic showcases of the region’s rich cultural tapestry, featuring a total of nine films.

This festival aimed to present the traditional cultures of diverse communities in Northeast India through the art of film, as highlighted by officials.

The event was collaboratively organized by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) of Manipur, the All Manipur Film Producers Association, and THOUNA, with backing from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the National Film Development Corporation.

During the closing ceremony, Hungyo Worshang, Secretary of the Information and Public Relations (IPR) and Tourism Department, commended the organizers for their successful efforts in staging the festival amidst numerous challenges, particularly financial hurdles.

He remarked that Manipur currently faces a scarcity of funding for film awards and recognition initiatives, and emphasized the necessity of proposing financial allocations for such endeavors in the future.

Worshang also highlighted the significance of hosting film festivals within the state, stating that these platforms enhance visibility for the vast cultural heritage of the Northeastern region. He underscored the need for authentic and compassionate representations of societal challenges, especially as Manipur strives for peace.

Encouraging collaboration among film industry members, the IAS officer noted that cinema serves as a vital medium for expressing the emotions of various communities while fostering peace, unity, and social harmony. He expressed optimism that the festival will grow in scale in the upcoming years.

In the awards segment, the accolade for Best Feature Film was awarded to “Collage,” produced by Sumitra Hazarika and directed by Amar Deep Gogoi. The Best Non-Feature Film award was given to “Toy Gun,” produced by Khumanllambam Omeshwori and directed by Thingnam Parshuram.

Monjul Baruah secured the Best Director award for “Romantic Affairs,” while Pradip Daimary was honored as Best Cinematographer for “Ha Lyngkha Bneng.”

Sanjib Gogoi took home the Best Editor award for “Noi Kotha,” and Debajit Gayan was named Best Sound Designer for “KangboAloti.”

The Best Screenwriter award was presented to Doren Naorem for “The Check Post.” The Jury Special Award went to “Phouoibee,” produced by Suraj Khongbantabam and directed by Rakesh Moirangthem, while “Laininghal Naoria Phullo,” produced by Sanatombi Heigrujam and directed by Rajen Leishangthem, received a Special Mention.

The aim of the festival was to encourage films that demonstrate aesthetic and technical prowess alongside meaningful social commentary, while promoting a deeper appreciation of Northeast India’s cultural diversity and enhancing unity through the medium of cinema.