Shillong, March 27: The first edition of the Shillong International Film Festival (SIFF), organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), concluded successfully with vibrant participation from students, filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts representing various colleges and universities across Meghalaya and beyond.
The final day of the three-day festival began with a masterclass on screenplay writing by filmmaker Dominic Sangma, who shared practical insights into cinematic storytelling. The session proved valuable for students and aspiring filmmakers looking to build careers in the film industry.
The programme also featured screenings of a range of films reflecting diverse themes and creative approaches. The films showcased included Ade by Theja Rio, Roots Renewed by K. Mark Swer and Tarun Bhartiya, By the Home by Mankap Nokwoham, Maimizial by Raymond Colney, Ahor by Kenny Lyngdoh, Impermanent Resident by Huu-Tuan Nguyen, and Shape of Momo by Tribeny Rai. Winning entries from the SIFF Student Film Competition were also screened, highlighting the emerging talent among young filmmakers.
A major highlight of the concluding day was a panel discussion on “Streaming Stories, Shifting Screens: OTT Platforms and the Future of Cinema in Meghalaya and Northeast India.” Students from St. Anthony’s College, North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), MIT, EFLU and other institutions attended the session, gaining insights into the evolving digital ecosystem and the growing influence of OTT platforms on regional cinema.
The closing ceremony was attended by Information and Public Relations Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, along with DIPR Director B.S. Sohliya (IAS), officials of the department, filmmakers and invited guests.
In his address, Rymbui praised the participants, filmmakers and students for their enthusiasm and active involvement throughout the festival. He noted that the visible fatigue among participants after three days of intensive engagement reflected their dedication and passion for filmmaking.
Describing the festival as a step in the right direction, he emphasised the importance of creating platforms for young talent and encouraging interaction among creative minds from Meghalaya, the Northeast and across the country. He said the exposure and knowledge gained during the festival would play a significant role in shaping the creative journeys of participants.
Congratulating the student winners, the minister highlighted the strong presence of talent and creativity among the youth and said such initiatives are essential to nurture and promote their abilities. He also acknowledged the support of the Chief Minister in making the festival possible.
Rymbui further underlined Meghalaya’s rich cultural heritage, unique narratives and scenic landscapes as valuable assets for filmmaking, urging participants to draw inspiration from their surroundings. He stressed the importance of balancing global exposure with a strong understanding of local stories.
Expressing optimism about the future of the festival, he shared a vision of developing Meghalaya into a preferred destination for filmmakers and encouraged young creatives to remain dedicated and committed, assuring continued government support.
During the ceremony, the chief guest also presented cash awards to winners of the SIFF Student Film Competition. Kyrshanborlin Wahlang received the second runners-up prize for Ki Thied along with a cash award of ₹20,000. The first runners-up award went to Kyrshanborlang Khardewsaw for The Paper Boat, with a cash prize of ₹30,000. The top honour was awarded to Stephen Malsawmsanga Rengsi for Unau Hmei Hai, who received a cash prize of ₹50,000.
The festival concluded on an optimistic note, with participants expressing enthusiasm for future editions and a renewed commitment to the art of filmmaking and storytelling.
