Imphal, Manipur, February 13 (HBTV): The 2nd North East India Film Festival 2025 of Manipur was inaugurated on Wednesday at the City Convention Centre in Imphal. The festival has been organised by Thouna Manipur in association with Film Forum Manipur & Directorate of Information & Public Relations, Government of Manipur; and sponsored by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India and the National Film Development Corporation.

Speaking on the event M Asnikumar Singh, the chairman of Loktak Development Authority, Government of Manipur, said movies have always been a mirror in reflecting the image of the society. This industry can generate employment along with promoting cultural heritage and plays a major role in providing a positive impact on the society.

Singh said the Manipuri film industry is deeply rooted in its cultural heritage, not only entertaining but highlighting challenges too. It helps in cultural exchange and economic impact for youths, which has helped in preserving linguistic identities, he said.   

Manipur, with its rich and storied cinematic tradition, has long been a torchbearer of cultural expression in the Northeast and beyond, he said. He assured to extend all possible support to Manipuri cinema in the future.

A member of the presidium, Prof. N Lokendro, Vice Chancellor of Manipur University, stated that Manipur films will foster cultural unity and nurture the growth of the film industry in the region.

The event should serve as an exceptional platform to showcase outstanding artistic and technical achievements from talented film makers of Northeast India, he said.   

Film makers from other Northeastern states have begged international film awards on many occasions but mostly for documentaries. This opportunity for exposure good cinema in the next five days especially from the Northeast is a noble initiative. A brochure was also released during the function. 

The music festival will conclude on the 16th of this month.