Rono Hills, Mar 20: The Department of Mass Communication and the Arunachal Institute of Tribal Studies at Rajiv Gandhi University in collaboration with CCRD and RIWATCH launched the second edition of Borderland Narratives Film Festival, a dynamic celebration of contemporary films from Northeast India. Supported by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the festival aims to amplify the region’s unique cultural narratives, fostering dialogue and creative expression among filmmakers and enthusiasts. The festival’s first day was packed with screenings, an enlightening workshop, and an inspiring inaugural session.
Vice Chancellor Incharge, Prof. Jayadeva Sahoo in his speech encouraged all the filmmakers to come keep producing meaningful movies which showcase our region in good spirit.
Registrar of the University, Dr. N.T. Rikam congratulated the organizers and advocated for making the festival an annual event, emphasizing its importance in promoting the rich culture and multi-ethnicity of Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast as a whole. He highlighted the festival’s role in educating young minds, preserving cultural traditions, and connecting the region with the broader world of filmmaking.
Festival Director Mr. Moji Riba, Assistant Prof. Dept. of Mass Comm shared his vision for the Borderland Narrative Film Festival, emphasizing its origins in a desire to provide a platform for alternative stories from Northeast India. He highlighted the festival’s role in filling a void for both emerging and established filmmakers and noted its support from the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, led by Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
The festival’s pre-opening session was moderated by Dr. Sunil Koijam, Assistant Professor of Mass Communication at Rajiv Gandhi University, began with the facilitation of prominent attendees and invitees. The audience was then treated to a selection of teasers and full film screenings of films made by Films students of the various Mass Communication institutes of the Northeast which showcased the rich tapestry of Northeast Indian stories.
The film screening session showcased a diverse array of compelling narratives from Northeast India. The lineup included “Exalt” by Sunalna Sonowal, a 9-minute exploration of revenge and justice; “Labour of Love” by SESJ Lyngdob, a 7-minute tribute to community service; and “Vanishing Root & Art, Culture and Folklore” by Esther Lalvanyon, set in Mizoram. Other notable screenings were “Madness of Mamon” by Alina Debbarma, addressing the influence of money; “Khudol” by Bobby Singh, a rags-to-riches tale from Manipur; “Mawankar” by Tara Tubing, touching on cultural loss; “Sunrise After Rain” by Nitesh, exploring themes of belonging; and “Folklore” by Nabam, delving into traditional storytelling. These films collectively offered a rich tapestry of contemporary Northeast Indian experiences, blending cultural heritage with modern narratives and showcasing the region’s diverse storytelling talents.These films offered diverse perspectives on the region’s culture, heritage, and social issues.
Alka Singh, an experienced filmmaker and Associate professor of Film and Television Institute, Itanagar conducted a workshop on “Exploring the Origins of Ideas in Screenwriting.” She was given a warn introduction by Dr. Zilpha Modi, Assistant Professor, AITS. Ms. Alka shared insights from her 18 years of international experience. She discussed how ideas emerge from fragmented thoughts and memories, using the concept of montage to illustrate the process. Alka emphasized the importance of balancing subjectivity and objectivity, particularly for journalism students, and suggested journaling as a means of exploring biases. She also warned against the overuse of music in film and encouraged drawing inspiration from dreams and abstract concepts. The workshop concluded with a discussion on poetic elements that enhance observation in filmmaking.
The inaugural session commenced with an opening invocation presented by Smti Yano Ptom, featuring a traditional Galo Kabem prayer for well-being and prosperity, sung by women priests during Mopin, a harvest festival. This was followed by Shri Niketan Laishram’s recitative verse performance, Shai Hou, which precedes traditional pena performances. The ceremonial lamp was then lit by lamas from Thupten Gatseling Monastery, marking the formal commencement of the festival.
The Borderland Narrative Film Festival promises to be an enriching experience, continuing with more screenings and workshops over the coming days.
