The North East India Film Festival (NEIFF 2024) concluded at Palace Auditorium of Manipur State Film Development Society in Imphal on Thursday evening. The film festival organised by THOUNA, Manipur in association with Film Forum Manipur, Directorate of Information & Public Relations and Department of Art & Culture, Govt. of Manipur, under the sponsorship of Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Govt. of India was commenced on March 3, 2024.

Speaking as Chief Guest of the function,  M. Joy Singh, Commissioner, IPR, said that the festival has been a journey into the hearts of human experience where film makers from diverse background of North East India shared their unique perspective and creativities transcending boundaries.

While appreciating the efforts of the organizers, he thanked the participating film makers who have delighted the public with their well-crafted cinematic expressions. He further added that the films that are screened during the 5-day festival have not only entertained but also stirred the souls and leave an indelible mark in the minds of the audience. 

Joy also expressed his desire that the influence of the films continue to resonate within us, fostering dialogues and commitment, to embrace our diversity. He also congratulated the award winners and all the participating film makers in making the festival a success.

Rapture directed by Dominic Sangma bagged the Best Film Award. The Best Director award was bagged by Haobam Paban Kumar for Joseph’s Son, Best Screenplay by Parthajit Baruah for Nellier Kotha, Best Cinematography by Jayant Sethu Mathavan for the film Before Spring, Best Editing by Kuldip Baruah for Samarpan and the Best Sound Award by Amrit Pritam and Debajit Changmai for Gorai Pakhri.

 Assamese films Before Spring directed by Shrutismriti Changkakoti and Ata Nirjon Duporiya directed by Khanjan Kishore Nath bagged the Special Jury Award and the Special Mentioned Award respectively.

Guru Rewben Mashangva was given the Jury Award for Outstanding Performance for his performance in the film Joseph’s Son.

Dr. Th. Charanjeet Singh, Director, IPR; L. Surjakanta Sharma, Chairman, Film Forum Manipur; Y. Nilachandra Singh, Chairman, Organizing Committee NEIFF 2024; Jury Members; Renown Film Makers from North East India; Artists, invitees and film lovers of the state took part in the closing function.