IMPHAL | Dec 19 : Films are the most important medium to take the lead to cultural integration and peaceful co-existence among communities in the state, said deputy chief minister, Y Joykumar.
Joykumar Singh stated this during the concluding event of the three-day film festival of tribal films organised today at Amity Hall of Adimjati Hostel, Chingmeirong. It was organised by State Level Tribal Film Festival Committee, Manipur.
Asserting that films reflect human relationship and different social norms of society such as religion, culture and traditions, he stressed on the necessity of film to strengthen ties between different communities and cultures.
“It gives us the message to re-think on issues which can be addressed collectively or individually,” therefore film makers and artistes should work together to give a clean image of the needs of society to its viewers, he continued.
He lauded the effort of the organising committee that it is a right step for development of tribal films. However, he urged that for the next festival, Meitei or Manipuri cinemas should also be allowed to take part, so that there can be more professionalism and views and ideas can be taken from both angles.
The deputy chief minister observed a number of tribes and sub-tribes with different culture and traditions have inhabited in Manipur for the last so many years. Despite having such differences, people in hill and valley are enjoying festivals together which shows the uniqueness of unity in diversity, he added.
Stating that government is trying to develop film production in the state, the deputy CM said, a Film and Television Institute has already been established to train people working in the field and to nurture new talents. He urged the people to take opportunities from the institute.
As a part of the programme, Joykumar also distributed presentations to film directors and producers of tribal communities.
The organising committee submitted a memorandum to the deputy CM for construction of cinema halls in the hill district headquarters.
It also demanded to earmark government funds for organising film festival annually and for conducting awareness campaign, seminars every year on making tribal films and documentary films.
The programme was also attended by chairman of the committee, Gairiangmei Maringmei, vice chairman, M. Tantanga, joint secretary, Tolkham Maring and media coordinator, Boipu Koiren as presidium members.
Altogether eight films were screened during the three-day film festival including Zeliangrong, Anal, Chothe, Tangkhul among others.
Source: Imphal Free Press
