Shillong’s emerging filmmakers shine at 18th Mumbai International Film Festival

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 21, 2024

Fraternity Art Cine Entertainment Shillong (FACES) has expressed its profound gratitude to Armstrong Pame, Director of Films Division, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, for the invaluable opportunity granted to five emerging filmmakers from Meghalaya. Their participation in the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) marks a significant milestone in their careers and the development of the local film industry.

The five filmmakers—Ekratia Khongtiang, Emidao Shylla, Shawn Gabrielle Kharphuli, Sankirang L Khongwir and Nekison Jordan Jyrwa—were selected to showcase their talent at the prestigious festival held in Mumbai. This remarkable achievement not only highlights their individual potential but also brings attention to the growing film culture in Meghalaya.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, FACES extended heartfelt thanks to Vijay Mantri, Commissioner and Secretary, IPR, Government of Meghalaya, for his unwavering support. “The exposure these filmmakers gained from this prestigious festival is instrumental in helping them grasp the importance of film festivals and their role in the cinematic landscape,” the statement read.

FACES emphasized that this experience has broadened the horizons of the filmmakers and underscored the need for a vibrant film culture in Meghalaya. The organization expressed hope that the Government of Meghalaya will continue to foster such initiatives, providing budding filmmakers with further opportunities to engage with and learn from national and international film events.

“As we look forward to nurturing more promising talent, we are confident that these experiences will inspire and cultivate a thriving film community in our state. We anticipate and welcome continued support from all stakeholders to ensure the sustained growth and recognition of Meghalaya’s filmmakers on larger platforms,” the statement said.

FACES, formed in 2018, aims to promote and support talents in the film industry by providing platforms and opportunities for local filmmakers to showcase their work and gain essential exposure. The organization has been actively fostering a robust cinematic culture in Meghalaya through initiatives like the Kelvin Cinema Festival, which held its first edition in 2019 and the second edition in 2023.

With a current membership strength of 23, FACES is led by president Simi Khongtiang, organizing secretary Pradip Kurbah, general secretary Dominic M. Sangma, treasurer Gordon Kharsyiemiong and vice president Julius L. Basaiawmoit. Their collective efforts are aimed at raising the standard of filmmaking and ensuring the continued growth and success of Meghalaya’s film industry.