With his first-ever retrospective featuring at the 5th edition of the Indian Documentary Film Festival of Bhubaneswar (IDFFB 2024), Manipuri filmmaker Haobam Paban Kumar has solidified his position as a pivotal figure in the world of Manipuri cinema, garnering acclaim both in India and internationally. This retrospective offers a fitting occasion to reflect on his two-decade-long cinematic journey and the profound impact of his distinctive voice in cinema.
Organized by the Film Society of Bhubaneswar from September 26-29 at the Odissi Research Centre Auditorium, IDFFB 2024 will showcase critically acclaimed films that have been featured at major festivals such as Berlin, Sundance, Rotterdam, IDSFFK (Kerala), Busan, New York, and many others.
Born in Manipur, a state often overlooked in the mainstream narrative of Indian cinema, Haobam Paban Kumar has carved a niche for himself through his unflinching storytelling and the authenticity of his subjects. His films serve as a lens into the socio-political realities of Manipur, a region marked by a complex history of insurgency, ethnic conflicts, and political unrest. However, his narratives go beyond the constraints of regional cinema, resonating with universal themes of human struggle, resilience, and hope.
Paban Kumar’s directorial journey began with documentaries, a medium he employed to delve deep into the realities of Manipur. His 2006 documentary, AFSPA 1958, is a landmark work that brought international attention to the draconian Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act imposed in the region. The film, which won the FIPRESCI Award at the 9th Mumbai International Film Festival, is a stark portrayal of the human rights abuses faced by the people of Manipur under the Act. It laid the groundwork for Paban Kumar’s cinematic philosophy of telling stories that matter, giving voice to the voiceless, and to expose the truths that are often swept under the rug.
Transitioning to feature films, Paban Kumar continued to push boundaries. His debut feature film, Loktak Lairembee (Lady of the Lake), won the Best Film on Environment Conservation/Preservation at the 64th National Film Awards and the NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film at the 2016 Mumbai International Film Festival. The film, set against the backdrop of the Loktak Lake, highlights the plight of the fishing community living on floating huts, or phumdis, on the lake. It is a haunting tale that juxtaposes the natural beauty of the lake with the harsh realities faced by its inhabitants. The film’s international success put Manipuri cinema on the map, showcasing the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage to a global audience.
Paban Kumar’s films are not just stories; they are powerful commentaries on the socio-political and cultural landscape of Manipur. His work reflects a deep empathy for his subjects and a commitment to preserving the cultural identity of his homeland. He uses the medium of cinema to bridge the gap between Manipur and the rest of the world, challenging stereotypes and offering nuanced portrayals of life in the region.
The retrospective at IDFFB 2024 is a testament to Paban Kumar’s contribution to Indian and global cinema. It is an acknowledgment of his unique voice that continues to challenge, inspire, and provoke. His films are not just works of art but instruments of change, compelling viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and to appreciate the resilience and spirit of the people of Manipur.
As Haobam Paban Kumar’s body of work is celebrated at this prestigious festival, it is clear that he has not only elevated Manipuri cinema but has also become a beacon for independent filmmakers across the world. His commitment to telling authentic stories, his courage to tackle difficult subjects, and his mastery of the craft make him a distinct and influential voice in contemporary cinema.
Filmmaker and commentator
