Imphal :Trishul Yumnam and Yaso Sharma’s 15-minute Manipuri animation film- Story of A Forest  is among the 15 films selected for the national animation competition of the 19^th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) 2026 organised  by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India currently held in Mumbai from June 15- 21, 2026.

Deep in the misty hills of Imphal Valley, the film tells about a young Ayangba embarks on a journey that transforms his understanding of the world around him. Impatient and eager to prove himself, he defies his coach and friends, taking a forbidden shortcut through the dense forest, unaware that his reckless steps disturb the delicate balance of nature.

As he ventures deeper, Ayangba is drawn into a hidden, mystical realm where the forest comes alive. There, an otherworldly creature—woven from light and nature itself—challenges his perception of control and teaches him the harmony of movement, stillness, and respect. In an extraordinary game of football, Ayangba learns that nature is not an obstacle to conquer but a force to coexist with.

Visually poetic and deeply resonant, Story of A Forest is a lyrical ode to nature, childhood curiosity, and the awakening of an environmental conscience, an intimate yet universal tale, woven with magic, wonder, and wisdom.

Talking about their debut film, the film director Trishul Yumnam stated, “We grew up in Imphal within the Meitei community, where forests are sacred spaces believed to be inhabited by Umang Lai, the forest deities. From childhood, we were taught that nature is alive and must be respected. This belief shaped the foundation of Story of A Forest.

As both the filmmakers trained at the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute, we wanted to unite our cinematic learning with our cultural roots. In Manipur, football is deeply woven into everyday youth life. It represents energy, pride, and the desire to move forward. In the film, Ayangba carries his football as a symbol of that restless ambition.

When he enters the forest holding it, he brings his competitive spirit into a sacred space that demands patience and awareness. Football slowly transforms from a sign of ego into a bridge between the boy and nature.

The forest is not a backdrop but a living presence. The bees, the marshland, and the fragile flower respond to his actions. Through 2D hand drawn animation, we created an intimate world where every movement follows nature’s rhythm.

In a fast moving modern world, we hope this film gently reminds us that harmony with nature begins with humility and small acts of care.”

Soma Laishram is the voice actor who voices the boy Ayangba in the film. Khwarakpam Biswamittra voices for the character of a teacher. Lead animator of the film is Sachindra Moirangthem assisted by the animators Umarani Soraisam and Bidyananda Kumar Ngangbam. Other background artists (painters) are Rahul Laishram and Saikhom Nongpokhenba Meitei. The film is produced by the National Film Development Corporation.