SHILLONG, MAR 25: The first edition of the Shillong International Film Festival commenced on Wednesday at the State Convention Centre, marking a significant milestone in Meghalaya’s efforts to promote filmmaking and creative expression. The festival is being organised by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) and has drawn participation from filmmakers, officials, students and aspiring artists, particularly youth keen to explore opportunities in the film industry.
The opening ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, IPR Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, Chief Secretary Shakil P Ahammed, Commissioner and Secretary of IPR Vijay Kumar Mantri, Lokayukta Chairperson C. P. Marak, Director of DIPR B. S. Sohliya and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister described the launch as a proud milestone, stating that the festival in 2026 fulfilled a long-standing vision of creating a platform for local talent. He said the initiative aims to build an ecosystem where youth can showcase their creativity and access opportunities in the film sector.
Highlighting Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage, Sangma noted that storytelling is deeply rooted in the state’s identity and emphasised the potential of the film industry to generate employment across acting, technical and allied sectors.
He further said the festival is part of a broader strategy to develop a sustainable creative ecosystem. With nearly half of the state’s population below 20 years of age, he stressed the importance of expanding opportunities to meet the aspirations of young people.
Referring to key initiatives, Sangma highlighted the launch of a state-run OTT platform, financial assistance schemes for filmmakers, and the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Programme (MGMP), which has enabled thousands of artists to earn livelihoods. He also informed that the government has approved a proposal for a film city and is planning to establish a film institute to provide technical training and professional support.
Emphasising a holistic and stakeholder-driven approach, he said the long-term goal is to position Meghalaya as a leading hub for filmmaking and creative industries in the Northeast. He also urged stakeholders to collaborate and contribute ideas to strengthen the festival in the coming years, expressing hope that it would grow into a major international attraction.
Echoing similar views, IPR Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said the festival provides a vital platform for storytelling and filmmaking. He noted that while the industry had experienced a slowdown in the past, it has witnessed a revival over the last decade, driven by increasing participation from young and creative individuals.
Rymbui pointed out that filmmaking in Meghalaya dates back to 1981 and acknowledged the contributions of noted filmmakers such as Pradip Kurbah and Dominic Sangma in advancing the industry. He encouraged youth to take advantage of the festival’s offerings, including workshops on filmmaking and screenplay writing, as well as a short film competition.
The festival is expected to serve as a key platform for cultural exchange, skill development and the promotion of Meghalaya’s stories on the global stage.
On the occasion, several prominent film personalities were felicitated for their contributions to the industry, including Biana Momin, Sheba Diengdoh, Phelima Sumer, (Late) Hamlet Bareh Ngapkynta, (Late) Rana Kharkongor, Pradip Kurbah, Simi Khongtiang, Cores Marwein, Lansius Syiemlieh, Kamki Diengdoh, Elizer Bareh, Kiki Garod, Section Syiemlieh, K Mark Swer, Roots Renewed, Tyrel R Lyngdoh, Arun Bhattarai, Mankap Nokwoham, Arnab Gayan, Hilarius Kharbihkhiew and Kenny Lyngdoh.
On the opening day, the film Ha Lyngkha Bneng, directed by Pradip Kurbah, was screened for the audience.
