Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey on Sunday stressed the need to produce films which showcase the resilient and positive qualities of women instead of showing them in a negative notion.
She also maintained that film and motion storytelling could be utilised to bridge the gap between culture and youth.
She was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the North East Film Festival 2024 which will be held for five days at the MSFDS, Imphal. Manipur is hosting the festival for the first time.
The festival has been jointly organised by Directorate of Information and Public Relation (DIPR), Thouna Manipur, Film Forum Manipur and Department of Art and Culture under the aegis of Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
The governor stated that film was an adhesive artform which transcended physical and cultural boundaries.
She added that films had the potential to make others acquainted with a different culture, tradition and background.
“We can use this artform to align the youths onto better prospects,” she said.
She exhorted filmmakers to shoot films which focused on positive themes and messages instead of exposing them in negative and violent stories.
Meanwhile, she further stated that the beauty of women extends far beyond her physicality.
“We need films which showcase the intrinsic qualities of women in positive limelight,” she said.
On a lighter note, she highlighted that the Northeastern part of India is a region rich in culture, tradition and art.
“The ministry has Rs 20 lakhs for the festival to promote the diverse motion storytelling sector of this region,” she added.
Meanwhile, doyen of Manipuri Cinema Aribam Shyam Sharma stated that film is not only an entertainment media but also a vast library which stored stories and wisdom about something unknown.
“It is like a book which teaches us about the multilayered fabric of society,” he said.
She exhorted all communities to explore the landscape of filmmaking and tell the others about their unique culture and heritage.
He called upon all filmmakers in the state to do their bit in promoting the diversity of Manipur.
Art and Culture commissioner M. Joy, DMU vice chancellor professor N Rajmuhon among other renowned film personalities of Manipur and the North East were present at the event.
