The Nagaland Cinefest 2025 commenced at The Heritage, Old DC Bungalow Kohima, on February 28. The event is organised by the Department of Information & Public Relations, in association with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC) under the theme, “Celebrating Stories, Inspiring Minds.”
The two-day festival was honored by the presence of Abu Mehta, Adviser to the Chief Minister and Chairman of IDAN, as the special guest. In his speech, Metha extended his congratulations to the Department of Information and Public Relations and expressed his gratitude to the Minister of Broadcasting for their partnership in organizing the event. He also thanked the National Film Development Council for their support and assistance.
Metha emphasized the significance of filmmaking as a medium that showcases the best of human creativity. He highlighted the multifaceted nature of filmmaking, where actors, directors, and all contributors play crucial roles. He urged everyone to appreciate the immense effort that goes into creating films, noting that filmmakers help preserve history by documenting today’s stories and yesterday’s experiences, leaving a living legacy for future generations. Metha pointed out that filmmaking is a multi-billion-dollar industry that offers numerous career opportunities and fulfills dreams. “Filmmaking is no longer confined to national media; regional cinema has gained prominence, and digital platforms have made it possible to reach every corner of the country,” said Metha who encouraged the use of social media for positive outcomes but also cautioned against its misuse. He advised attendees to use social media responsibly, ensuring they share accurate information and avoid spreading fake news or content that could harm others.
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The Special Guest highlighted the immense potential of Nagaland in the creative economy, which can generate significant career opportunities and revenue for the state. He noted that the creative economy has democratised the film industry, ensuring that talent remains within the state and that the youth of Nagaland can pursue fulfilling careers. He assured that the state government is committed to strengthening and expanding the creative economy.
He also announced plans to collaborate with foreign embassies and industry stakeholders to organize a larger and more impactful film-related festival during the Hornbill Festival. Metha congratulated Live Now for their collaboration and efforts in organizing the event.
Metha further stated that the young minds of Nagaland are brave and filled with courage, and encouraged them to take on the world. He expressed hope that the festival would serve as a starting point for young minds to embark on their careers in the creative industry.
Speaking on the impact of films, Joint Secretary, Information & Public Relations, Kusa Fithu stated that films go well beyond entertainment: that films can educate, enlighten and the universal language of films serves as a bridge to connect and unite people across the globe. She added that film festivals such as the Nagaland CineFest celebrate diversity and serves as a hub for networking and collaboration. Fithu expressed hope that the Nagaland CineFest 2025 will not only entertain but help to educate and inspire emerging and aspiring filmmakers, actors, producers and film enthusiasts to showcase their work, engage in discussions and celebrate the art of filmmmaking.
Nagaland CineFest 2025 will be held from February 28 to March 1, 2025. The first day of the festival featured masterclasses on ‘The evolution of film editing: cinema to digital age,” – A historical journey through major editing techniques innovations by Moses Mark, Singapore, and ‘Nagaland, New Horizons’ by Bendang Walling. Another highlight of the day was CineConnect – A conversation with Bendang Walling, LC Sekhose, Khrievilie Suohumvü, Kikru Neikha and Mr. Smile. Films such as Eleison (Have mercy) – directed by Raymond Colney (Mizoram), Chanchisoa (Expectation) – directed by Elvachisa Sangma (Meghalaya) and Paper Airplanes – directed by Moses Marks (Singapore) were screened on the first day of the festival.
The two-day festival aims to showcase a diverse range of films highlighting both local and national talent.
On the second day The Untiring Woman (Director: Maibam Amarjeet Singh, Manipur), Andro Dreams (Director: Meena Longjam, Manipur) and Yong (Director: Tiakumzuk Aier, Nagaland) will be screened.
