The upcoming Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival (EIIFF) is set to showcase 57 films from around the world, but in a bold yet cautious move, it will not feature any Hindi films. This aligns with the two-decade-long ban imposed by insurgent groups in Manipur, aiming to preserve the region’s cultural heritage. Despite growing cultural exchange, the fear of insurgent reprisal continues to influence local events, including the festival, which will highlight Manipuri and international cinema.
BY PC Bureau
The Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival (EIIFF), scheduled from February 6 to 9, 2025, will feature a dazzling lineup of 57 films from around the globe. However, no Hindi films will be screened, in line with a ban imposed by Valley-based insurgent groups on the screening of Hindi films in Manipur for more than two decades.
This decision underscores the enduring sensitivity surrounding Hindi cinema in the state and the fact that the insurgents from the valley call the shots despite presence of massive security forces.
The ban is enforced so strictly that while boxing champion M C Mary Kom’s biopic made was screened globally, in 2014, her native state Manipur missed the movie owing to the ban on Hindi movies by militant groups.
The ban dates back to September 2000, when the Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF), the political wing of the proscribed People’s Liberation Army, enforced restrictions as part of a cultural and political push to preserve Manipuri language and heritage. The last Hindi film publicly screened before the ban was “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” in 1998.
However, defying the call of the valley-based insurgents, On August 15, 2023, the Hmar Students’ Association (HSA) organized a public screening of the Hindi film “Uri: The Surgical Strike” at the HSA Campus in Rengkai, Churachandpur.. This event marked the first public showing of a Hindi film in the state since a ban was imposed by insurgent groups in 2000.
When contacted, the festival’s programme head, Mr. Bogo confirmed that there won’t be any Hindi film screened at the festival. “The festival has no ‘Hindi Film’ section, but dialogues in the Hindi language are present in some films,” he said.
However, organizers did not respond to a follow-up query about whether the decision was influenced by concerns over insurgent threats.
ALSO READ: Imphal Film Festival Unveils Diverse Lineup with 57 Films, Showcasing Manipuri Classics
The precaution taken by the organizers is understandable. When bloodletting is the order of the day in Manipur, who would dare to take on the insurgents?” said a retired government official over the phone. “At least they are trying to infuse some life amid the all-around gloom and fear,” he added.
Why the Ban Still Holds
Despite the opening up of the cultural space, the screening of Hindi films in public venues like the EIIFF remains a sensitive issue. The Manipuri public and film industry leaders have expressed a preference for showcasing local cinema to foster regional culture, with film festivals like EIIFF highlighting 13 Manipuri films alongside international works from countries such as Myanmar, Nepal, and Kazakhstan.
While Hindi films are now legally allowed in the state, but no theatre dares tio screen them iun public
The festival’s organizers have confirmed that this year, the focus will remain on regional and international films, with special screenings of remastered Manipuri classics like Ishanou, Sanakeithel, and Yairipok Thambalnu.
There is absolutely no harm in making a movie regarding the current crisis in Manipur.
However, it would be utterly catastrophic if the story is a distorted one. No matter what, indigenous Manipuris must not be held as culpable in any way.These issues have all unquestionably… pic.twitter.com/TXu4BgKgJJ
— BiMoL L (@Bimol27lyz) January 28, 2025
Cultural and Cinematic Significance
The festival’s avoidance of Hindi films aligns with ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the rich cinematic heritage of Manipur. The remastered screenings of Manipuri classics aim to foster pride in local filmmaking while offering a platform for international films from diverse cultures and backgrounds. In keeping with these values, the 2025 edition of EIIFF will continue its commitment to celebrating the voice of Manipuri cinema while maintaining the region’s cultural boundaries.
As the festival rolls out, audiences will have the chance to experience a curated blend of narrative and visual diversity from across the globe, with a continued emphasis on local heritage.
Cinema unites, transcending differences 🎬 URI – Surgical Strike is now the first Hindi movie to be publicly screened in Manipur after 20 years. Storytelling has the power to bridge gaps and celebrate shared emotions🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/qWQENneOWy
— Ronnie Screwvala (@RonnieScrewvala) August 19, 2023
Festival Highlights and Significance
The EIIFF 2025 promises a memorable experience, with special screenings of remastered Manipuri classics like Ishanou, Sanakeithel, Yairipok Thambalnu, and Chatledo Eidi—films that highlight the region’s rich cinematic history. The festival will also explore international cinema, with films from diverse global perspectives, reflecting the growing cultural exchange in the Northeast.
One of the most anticipated moments of the festival will be the screening of the iconic Manipuri film, Ishanou (The Chosen One), directed by Aribam Syam Sharma, which will open the festival.
A Platform for Local Heritage and Global Storytelling
While Hindi films are legally allowed in Manipur, the absence of Bollywood movies in the festival underscores a commitment to fostering local pride and cultural boundaries. The festival’s focus on regional cinema, both from Manipur and international filmmakers, highlights the growing cultural and cinematic diversity that the EIIFF continues to champion.
By refusing to screen Hindi films, the festival maintains its role as a platform for Manipuri filmmakers to shine, offering them an opportunity to showcase their work to a global audience and celebrate their cultural identity.
Key Takeaways
- EIIFF 2025 will not feature any Hindi films.
- 13 Manipuri films will be showcased alongside a variety of international films.
- Remastered Manipuri classics such as Ishanou and Sanakeithel will be a special focus.
- The absence of Hindi films continues the state’s tradition of cultural preservation and emphasizes regional cinema at major cultural events.
