What Happened at the National Tribal Film Festival in Manipur?
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Synopsis
The National Tribal Film Festival in Manipur celebrates India's tribal heritage through cinema, featuring films from nine states. The event includes screenings, discussions, and cultural performances, culminating in a tribute to tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
Key Takeaways
- Emphasis on tribal cinema: The festival highlights the importance of tribal films in representing cultural narratives.
- Engagement with filmmakers: Attendees can interact with national guests and filmmakers.
- Focus on education: The event includes master classes aimed at fostering cultural understanding.
- Legacy celebration: The festival coincides with the commemoration of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
- Collaboration: The event is a partnership between various tribal and film organizations.
Imphal, Nov 12 (NationPress) The four-day National Tribal Film Festival and Carnival kicked off in Imphal on Wednesday, highlighting 23 tribal films from nine different states and honoring India’s rich tribal heritage through the lens of cinema and culture.
Manipur’s Additional Chief Secretary Anurag Bajpai stated that the festival is organized as part of the celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh and aims to promote and celebrate tribal cinema, culture, and creative expression from various tribal communities across the nation.
This event, taking place from November 12 to 15 at the City Convention Centre and the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) complex, features films hailing from nine states: Maharashtra, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur.
According to Bajpai, the festival will showcase six feature films, two documentaries, 14 short films, and one animated film. This animation, a 15-minute production by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), depicts the life of tribal freedom fighter Rani Gaidinliu.
The festival also welcomes 16 national guests, 27 state delegates, and representatives from five tribal film forums and associations.
As part of this four-day celebration, attendees can look forward to two master classes, panel discussions, and two ‘In-Conversation’ sessions featuring filmmakers and cultural experts.
The opening ceremony on Wednesday included inaugural screenings, while the closing event on November 15 will coincide with the observance of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh Pakhwada and honor the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a revered tribal freedom fighter.
The closing day is set to feature floral tributes, cultural performances, and a special film screening. This festival is organized by the Tribal Research Institute and the Department of Tribal Affairs & Hills, Government of Manipur, in partnership with the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS). L.N. Kashung, Director of Tribal Affairs & Hills, mentioned that the event merges the National Tribal Film Festival with the State-Level Tribal Carnival, Manipur.
“This festival marks the first time the National Tribal Film Festival is hosted in Manipur, featuring filmmakers from nine states. A total of 23 tribal-themed films will be showcased during the festival. Our goal is to promote cinema, preserve culture through film, and provide cultural education that encourages empathy, respect, and harmony among communities,” Kashung remarked.
Another senior official from the department highlighted that Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh is a year-long commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, which will be observed from November 15, 2024, to November 15, 2025, celebrating the heritage and contributions of India’s tribal communities.
Point of View
I believe that the National Tribal Film Festival not only showcases the artistic talents of India's tribal communities but also plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. This event fosters dialogue and understanding, which is essential for a harmonious society.
NationPress
12/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Tribal Film Festival?
The National Tribal Film Festival is an event that showcases tribal films from across India, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of tribal communities.
When and where is the festival taking place?
The festival is being held from November 12 to 15 at the City Convention Centre and the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) complex in Imphal.
How many films are being showcased at the festival?
A total of 23 tribal films from nine states are being showcased at the festival.
What activities are planned during the festival?
The festival includes film screenings, master classes, panel discussions, and cultural performances.
What is the significance of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh?
Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh is a year-long commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, celebrating the contributions of tribal communities in India.
