Manipur has a rich cinematic legacy, with numerous films making their mark on prestigious international platforms like the Cannes Film Festival and other global showcases. However, despite these achievements, filmmakers in the state continue to struggle with producing meaningful films on a regular basis. A crucial gap exists in the ecosystem, one that must be addressed for Manipuri cinema to thrive sustainably.
Against this backdrop, during the second edition of the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival (EIIFF), the Imphal Review of Arts and Politics (IRAP) engaged in a candid discussion with renowned Manipuri actors to explore how the region’s film industry can reach greater heights on the world stage.
Acclaimed Manipuri actor Denny Likmabam highlighted the significant strides that filmmakers from the state have made, with many works competing globally. He emphasized that hosting film festivals in Manipur is a vital step in supporting local filmmakers. However, when asked what it would take for Manipuri cinema to truly flourish, he pointed to a fundamental missing piece: a dedicated film school.
“The artists of Manipur lack a formal space to learn acting and other essential skills,” Denny stated. “Most of us rely on our inborn talent, as there is no institution in the state that provides structured training in acting or filmmaking. If a film institute were established here, it would offer aspiring artists the opportunity to refine their skills, amplifying their potential for greater impact.”
Adding to the conversation on the need for structured training in Manipuri cinema, acclaimed actress Bala Hijam shared her perspective. Bala recently starred in the internationally acclaimed Manipuri film Boong. Having worked in both low-budget and high-budget films from a young age, she expressed her deep passion for the art of filmmaking.
“Manipur has no shortage of talented actors, both men and women, but what we lack is proper guidance to help them navigate the industry and achieve success,” Bala remarked. “When I first entered the film industry, I had no prior knowledge of acting. I learned everything through experience. If we can equip aspiring actors with the right training from the start, it will make their journey into films much smoother. That’s why Manipur urgently needs a full-fledged, recognized film institute offering courses in filmmaking and acting. With the right foundation, we can produce great actors who will make their mark on global cinema.”
Beyond formal training, Bala emphasized the importance of dedication and complete immersion in the craft. She recalled a lesson from renowned Manipuri filmmaker Romi Meitei, which stayed with her throughout her career.
“Da Romi once told me: ‘Eat film, sleep film, drink film if you want to be a great actor.’ At first, I didn’t quite understand what he meant. But as I gained experience and worked on projects beyond Manipur, I realized his words held a deep truth. To truly excel, an actor must completely immerse themselves in their work, in the character, and in the very essence of cinema,” she said.
Acclaimed Manipuri actress Soma Laishram weighed in on the role of actors in bringing Manipuri cinema to the global stage. While acknowledging the significance of actors, she stressed that the responsibility does not lie with them alone—it requires a collective effort from the entire film industry.
“It’s not just about the actors. We need a strong production team, a visionary director, and compelling storytelling,” Soma emphasized. “Technically, too, we must strengthen our skills. A well-established production house can play a crucial role in elevating Manipuri cinema.”
When asked about storytelling trends in Manipuri films, she highlighted the importance of breaking away from monotony. According to her, filmmakers should embrace fresh and dynamic storytelling approaches, tailoring their narratives to suit the subject matter rather than following a repetitive pattern.
“The way we tell our stories matters. It has to be meaningful and engaging,” she said. “Presentation is just as important as the story itself. Ultimately, filmmaking is about teamwork, when we collaborate effectively, we can create great films.”
Discussing the impact of film festivals like the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival (EIIFF), Soma strongly supported their role in shaping Manipuri cinema. She noted that such platforms provide an invaluable opportunity for exposure, learning, and networking.
“These festivals showcase incredible films from around the world, giving us the chance to experience diverse storytelling styles,” she explained. “They also allow us to connect with filmmakers from other states and beyond. Film festivals aren’t just about celebrating cinema; they’re about cultural exchange, connecting people through emotions and traditions. They broaden the perspectives of filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike.”
Denny and Bala stressed the need for full-fledged film schools in Manipur, recognizing that structured training would refine the skills of actors, cinematographers, and directors, ultimately strengthening the filmmaking process. Soma, on the other hand, highlighted the power of collective effort in creating meaningful and impactful films, emphasizing the importance of strong storytelling and teamwork. Across all aspects of filmmaking, true excellence can only be achieved through proper technical training, which remains the need of the hour. Together, their insights point to a clear path forward, Manipur’s film industry must invest in education, collaboration, and innovation to truly make its mark on the global stage.
The writer is a media scholar and professional
