Crisis Cuts Manipuri Film Production by Over 50%; Many Actors Shift Professions

Without adequate support and resources, the industry risks losing both its talent and its role in preserving of Manipuri society.

– Moirangthem Nganbarel

Since the release of Matamgi Manipur, the first Manipuri feature film in 1972, the state’s film industry has evolved into a vital cultural force. However, the ethnic crisis that began on May 3, 2023, has dealt a severe blow to this rich legacy, cutting production rates by more than 50% compared to previous years. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and the current crisis, at least 30 Manipuri films were produced and screened annually.

Data from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) show that in 2018, 32 Manipuri films were certified. This number dropped to 15 in 2019, but it rose to 24 in 2021 and 31 in 2022. In stark contrast, 2023 saw only eight films censored: 2020 Gee Thoibi, Tamphamani, Ashaobagee Nungshiba, Mareibak Ningba Herachandra, Joseph’s Son, Thambal – The Legacy of Celestial Flower,  Thasida Thabal, and Bamon Ebemma.

Speaking to Northeast Live, Sanzu Bachaspatimayum, Secretary of the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) stated, “The rate of film production has significantly decreased, but filmmakers in Manipur continue to work tirelessly. Some producers, despite limited returns, continue to invest to promote Manipuri cinema.”

The MSFDS, and the Manipur State Film and Television Institute, has been conducting workshops and seminars on areas such as scriptwriting, marketing, and other facets of cinema, aiming to spur development in Manipuri cinema. “We can expect a lot of development in Manipuri cinema in the coming four to five years,” Sanzu added.

The crisis has also affected cinema halls in Manipur. While the global trend of declining theater attendance began with COVID-19, Manipur’s cinema halls have been especially impacted, as many were aging facilities that didn’t meet modern comfort standards. Some halls have been converted into shopping complexes, though a few still operate.

Independent filmmaker and playwright Ningthoujam Hemchand elaborated on the effects of the crisis, explaining how production houses halted their activities for various reasons. “Film is often seen as a mirror of society. The films we make today will document our present challenges and shape the understanding of future generations,” he said, stressing the importance of continued film production to convey essential social messages. He expressed his disappointment in the sharp drop in production compared to past years.

Financial struggles have also impacted many actors and crew members, with some forced to change professions to support their families. “Actors in Manipur don’t typically earn much per project, and with this crisis, many families of actors are struggling. Some actors have had to shift to other jobs to make ends meet,” Hemchand added, urging society to recognize the hardships the artistic community is facing.

In a major blow to local filmmakers, not a single Manipuri film was selected for this year’s Indian Panorama section of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. This marks a stark contrast to previous years when films like Aribam Syam’s Yelhou Jagoi , Bobo Khuraijam’s Ima Sabitri, Bobby Wahengbam and Maipaksana Haorongbam Eigi Kona (Stallone, My Pony), Maibam Amarjeet’s Highways of Life, Meena Longjam’s Andro Dreams gained recognition on the national stage. The ongoing crisis has not only stymied production but also hindered the creative output of filmmakers.

The future of Manipuri cinema remains uncertain as the crisis stretches into its 18th month. Known globally for its rich art, culture, and sports heritage, Manipur now faces the potential erosion of its once-vibrant film industry. Without adequate support and resources, the industry risks losing both its talent and its role in preserving and portraying the culture and challenges of Manipuri society.

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