Third edition of Nagaland Film Festival concludes

Morung Express News
Kohima | December 5

The three-day Nagaland Film Festival organised by the Department of Information & Public Relations (DIPR) in association with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and Film Association of Nagaland (FAN) concluded on Sunday evening with a valedictory function at the Capital Convention Centre in Kohima.

Advisor to Chief Minister of Nagaland, Abu Metha, who could not grace the closing function as the special guest owing to the unfortunate firing incident at Oting village in Mon district, conveyed hope in a message that the three-day film festival was entertaining, enriching and beneficial to all the participants.

Noting that film activity is still at a nascent stage in the state, he however said that “the government understands the importance of films in terms of encouraging the young talents, exposing our rich tradition, art and culture, beautiful landscapes of our state, which are yet to be captured through camera and showcase the state to the outside world, thus making our state a tourist and filmmakers destination.”

Also having learnt through DIPR that they are in the process of formulating state film policy which, he added, is in the right direction, he stated, “I will do my best to take it forward in my own capacity as the advisor to the chief minister for government’s approval.”

“We will do our best to make this a yearly affair. Your support will be necessary in our future endeavours and we hope that you all enthusiastically participate in future as well,” he put across.

In his opening remarks, Er Z Tokishe Sema, Director of DIPR recalled that the past three days have been hectic but said that it has been “a wonderful time with workshop, script writing, master classes, independent filmmaking, digital photography, etc.” He stated hope that they have all gained and enriched themselves and benefited out of the festival.

As the nodal department for the state, he said IPR is closely associated with FAN and in this connection, further added that “together we can take forward promotion of film in the state.” “North East can become a hub for film and a tourist hotspot. Let’s keep this up and I hope this event becomes a yearly affair,” he said.

Meenakshi Shedde, a participant from Mumbai remarked that “there are very unique stories here that people need to hear. “It is very much time to strike it hot”, she expressed while also observing that it is a women-driven community, and “very very generous community spirit which you don’t find in Mumbai.”

Highlights of the closing function included special number by Vito Awomi and vote of thanks by Yapangnaro, General Secretary of Film Association of Nagaland.  

In the afternoon session, cultural dances and folk songs were performed by Lotha, Angami, Chakhesang, Rengma, Sumi and Garo.