Will Manipur Host the National Tribal Film Festival from November 8?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- National Tribal Film Festival in Manipur from November 8-11.
- Collaboration with Ministry of Tribal Affairs and MSFDS.
- Open to all filmmakers focusing on tribal themes.
- Films must have English subtitles and be released post January 1, 2020.
- Highlights the importance of tribal narratives in contemporary media.
Imphal, Oct 9 (NationPress) The National Tribal Film Festival, spanning four days, is set to take place in Manipur starting from November 8, as confirmed by officials on Thursday.
In celebration of the nationwide 'Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh', the Tribal Research Institute (TRI) of Manipur, in partnership with the Tribal Affairs and Hills Department, will organize this festival from November 8 to 11, in collaboration with the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS).
TRI Director L. N. Kashung stated that the festival is being held with the backing of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India.
Named Tribal Frames Manipur, this non-competitive festival aims to unite tribal filmmakers, enhance visibility, and foster a platform for dialogue, learning, and cultural exchange.
Kashung noted that the festival is welcoming all filmmakers, animators, and storytellers focusing on tribal themes.
While films can be produced in any tribal language, English subtitles are mandatory. Films released after January 1, 2020 are eligible for participation, including both shorts and feature-length films.
Additionally, the festival will accept documentaries, fiction, and animation. Filmmakers, animators, and storytellers are encouraged to submit films for the inaugural Tribal Frames Manipur (TFM) 2025, a distinct platform highlighting the voices, stories, and visions from tribal communities.
Officials view this upcoming festival as a significant opportunity to promote dialogue, cultural exchange, and learning through cinema, while also emphasizing tribal perspectives in India’s contemporary media.
The festival is anticipated to attract filmmakers, scholars, and spectators nationwide, further solidifying Manipur’s status as a center for tribal arts and storytelling.
A representative from the Tribal Affairs and Hills Department mentioned that Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh is the Union government's commemoration of the 150th birth anniversary of tribal leader Bhagwan Birsa Munda, celebrated from November 15, 2024, to November 15, 2025, honoring the heritage and contributions of India’s tribal communities.