The 3rd North East India Film Festival (NEIFF) 2026 commenced today at TanthaPolis Cinema, Lamphel, bringing together a diverse lineup of films from across the Northeastern region. The two-day festival, jointly organised by THOUNA, the Directorate of Information & Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Manipur, and the All Manipur Film Producers Association, is supported by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC).

The festival will conclude on March 22.
Inaugurating the event, Professor Paonam Gunindro, Vice Chancellor of Manipur University of Culture, lauded THOUNA for consistently organising the festival despite challenges. He highlighted cinema as a powerful medium that reflects societal evolution while showcasing the rich cultural diversity and unique identity of the Northeast beyond national boundaries.
Additional Director of DIPR, Tongbram Ramesh Singh, said the festival aims to encourage filmmakers and promote regional cinema. He noted that nine films are being screened during the event and emphasised the growing recognition of Northeast films, citing the international success of the Manipuri film “Boong,” which won a BAFTA award.

Chairman of the Organising Committee, Y. Nilachandra Singh, along with filmmakers, artistes and members of the film fraternity, attended the inaugural programme.

The festival seeks to promote a vibrant and inclusive film culture while encouraging appreciation of cinema as an art form. Nine selected films from across the region are being screened, offering audiences a glimpse into the stories, traditions and creativity of Northeast India.