IMPHAL — Manipur, a land renowned for its rich cultural and cinematic
legacy, is set to celebrate the 2nd edition of the 'Eikhoigi Imphal
International Film Festival (EIIFF)-2025' from February 6 to promote the art of
cinema and position the state as a strategic hub for independent filmmaking.
Festival Director Sunzu Bachaspatimayum on Monday said
that the four-day EIIFF-2025 in Imphal from February 6, would feature 54 films,
including 38 international titles from Germany, Australia, Iran, Norway, Syria,
Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Bhutan.
Bachaspatimayum, who is also the Secretary of the Manipur
State Film Development Society (MSFDS), during a media briefing, introduced the
creator of the Festival Memento, renowned artist Robin Wahengbam, who
previously designed the mascot for the 1999 National Games held in Manipur.
The memento, featuring the Manipuri Pony, symbolises the
enduring spirit of cinema and Manipur’s artistic resilience.
Wahengbam shared that his design concept was inspired by
the relentless energy of both the film industry and the Manipuri Pony, aiming
to spotlight the need for the conservation of this endangered indigenous breed.
With a vision to elevate EIIFF as a premier international
film festival in the region, this edition features an exceptional lineup of
critically acclaimed films from global festivals alongside a dedicated showcase
of cinema from northeast India.
According to Bachaspatimayum, film packages include
International Competition, World Lenses, Northeast Currents, Eikhoigi Classics,
Eikhoigi Montage, Remastered Manipuri Cinema: The Light of Manipuri, and
Manipuri Matinee.
Beyond screenings, EIIFF 2025 offers industry-focused
events such as Masterclasses, Cine Talks, Panel Discussions, and Pitch Sessions
in both Documentary and Fiction categories, fostering emerging talents and
industry networking.
On the festival delegate registration process, the
Festival Director revealed that film screenings are open only to persons who
are accredited with the festival, by paying Rs 150. Children are also welcome
at industry venues, food courts, and cultural events. However, there is restricted
entry to film screenings and seats for the film screening must be reserved in
advance, Bachaspatimayum said.
The EIIFF-2025 is supported by the Union Ministry of
Information and Broadcasting, the National Film Development Corporation, the
Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation, and the Information
and Cultural Affairs Departments of Tripura and Manipur.
