IMPHAL | The 16th edition of the Manipur State Film Awards was held on Thursday at the Palace Auditorium of the Manipur State Film Development Society in Imphal, celebrating achievements and contributions to Manipuri cinema.

The ceremony was attended by Ajay Kumar Bhalla, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh and Art & Culture and Tourism Minister Kh. Loken Singh, along with filmmakers, artists, technicians and members of the film fraternity.

Organised by the MSFDS, the awards are considered the highest state recognition in the Manipuri film industry and honour excellence in feature films, non-feature films and contributions to cinema and the arts.

One of the key highlights of the event was the presentation of the MSFDS Lifetime Achievement Award to Ngangbam Swarnajit Singh in recognition of his pioneering contribution as Manipur’s first professional artist in cinema. Governor Bhalla presented the honour during the ceremony.

Awards across multiple feature and non-feature film categories were also distributed to winners during the programme. The official catalogue of the 16th Manipur State Film Awards was released on the occasion.

The event additionally featured a demonstration of the traditional Manipuri martial art form Thang-Ta by the Huyen Lallong Manipur Thang-Ta Cultural Association, showcasing the state’s cultural heritage.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Bhalla described Manipuri cinema as an important medium of storytelling and cultural expression reflecting the identity, resilience and aspirations of the people of Manipur.

He congratulated the award winners and praised the contributions of filmmakers, actors, writers, technicians, researchers and artists in strengthening the state’s film industry. The Governor also encouraged young filmmakers to preserve local languages, traditions and cultural values while embracing innovation in cinema.

Chief Minister Khemchand Singh said cinema played a significant role in shaping social values and inspiring society. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the Manipuri film industry, including its comparatively smaller audience base, but expressed confidence that the sector would continue moving towards wider recognition and growth.

The Chief Minister also reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting and strengthening regional cinema in Manipur.

Members of the film fraternity and officials present at the programme said platforms such as the Manipur State Film Awards are important for encouraging local talent and promoting Manipuri cinema at national and international levels.