SHILLONG : Meghalaya is set to host its first-ever Shillong Film Festival from March 25 to 27 at the State Convention Centre, marking a major milestone for the state’s growing film industry.
The announcement was made by Information and Public Relations Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, who described the initiative by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations as “path-breaking” and a beginning of many such events in the future.
Rymbui stated that the festival has received entries not only from across the Northeast and other parts of India but also from international filmmakers, highlighting its wide reach and importance.
He said the festival aims to promote Meghalaya’s rich culture, scenic landscapes, and tourism potential, while also providing a valuable learning platform for local youth through interactions with globally acclaimed filmmakers.
Alongside film screenings, the festival will feature workshops on filmmaking and editing, giving aspiring filmmakers hands-on exposure to the craft.
Reflecting on the history of regional cinema, Rymbui noted that Khasi films began over four decades ago, crediting pioneers like Laiphew Syiem and the iconic 1980s film Manik Raitong. He added that the current wave of Khasi, Garo, and other regional films deserves greater recognition and institutional support.
He also highlighted recent achievements, including award-winning films like Ha Lyngkha Bneng directed by Pradip Kurbah and the Garo film Chanchisoa by Elvachisa Ch Sangma and Dipankar Das. Local film Ka Chithi by Simi Khongthiang is also among those to be screened.
Positioning the festival as part of the youth empowerment vision of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Rymbui encouraged young people to attend the event, learn the filmmaking process, and take advantage of the opportunities provided.
He also urged officials of DIPR to ensure smooth execution so that similar and larger editions can be organised in the future.
Earlier, Commissioner & Secretary Vijay Mantri said the festival fulfils a long-standing demand and marks the beginning of sustained government support for the state’s film sector.
Mantri described the Shillong Film Festival as a “path-breaking” initiative made possible through the leadership of the minister, support from the Government of India, and guidance from the Chief Minister.
He added that the government’s involvement through DIPR aims to address long-standing challenges faced by the local film industry, which has struggled to grow due to various constraints.
“This is just the beginning,” Mantri said, noting that future editions of the festival will be expanded and strengthened.