Bollywood, Tollywood, and even Hollywood, India has always had a deep love for cinema. But have you ever wondered what lies beyond the mainstream? Imagine a festival where regional brilliance meets global storytelling, where Manipuri classics shine alongside international gems. Well, cinephiles, mark your calendars because the 2nd Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival is all set to bring the magic of the silver screen to Manipur from February 6 to 9, 2025!
What is the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival
Every film festival has a story, and the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival is no exception. Organised by the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS), this event is more than just a celebration of films—it's a tribute to Manipuri cinema’s resilience, evolution, and artistic brilliance. The inaugural edition in April 2022 marked the golden jubilee of Manipuri cinema, and now, the second edition aims to take things up a notch. With 57 films lined up from across the globe, including 13 Manipuri films, this festival is an opportunity to experience diverse cultures, voices, and perspectives through the lens of filmmakers. But beyond the new, the festival also pays homage to the past. Thanks to the National Mission for Film Preservation, four legendary Manipuri films have been digitised and will be showcased, Ishanou (The Chosen One) by Aribam Syam Sharma, Sanakeithel (Golden Market) by M.A. Singh, Yairipok Thambalnu by Banka Sharma, and Chatledo Eidi (Gone With A Heavy Heart) by Makhonmani Mongsaba. In a land where cinema has often been a reflection of society, this festival stands as a beacon for storytelling, preserving history while embracing the new wave of filmmakers eager to make their mark.
What’s on the Reel?
This festival is not just about watching films—it's about experiencing cinema in all its glory. The screenings will be held across four vibrant venues: the MSFDS Complex, Chandrakriti Auditorium, Tanthapolis, and Kumecs Cinema, each offering a unique cinematic atmosphere. The festival features two major competitive sections—fiction and non-fiction. In the fiction category, eleven feature films will compete, including seven international films and four Indian films, with one proudly representing Manipur. Meanwhile, the non-fiction section brings a powerful selection of ten documentary films, six of which are international entries, capturing real stories from different corners of the world. But the experience doesn’t end with films.
The festival promises panel discussions, industry networking events, and cultural performances, making it a hub for cinephiles, critics, and filmmakers alike. The opening and closing ceremonies at the City Convention Centre, Palace Compound, will add a touch of grandeur, setting the perfect stage for a celebration of storytelling. Delegate cards provide full festival access for those eager to attend, while individual film tickets are available for those looking to explore select screenings.
The Final Curtain
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From indie films to timeless classics, the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival 2025 promises a journey through storytelling like never before. Whether you're a filmmaker, a cinema lover, or someone looking for a weekend full of culture and entertainment, this festival is where you need to be.
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