Gangtok, March 19: The inaugural edition of the Sikkim International Film Festival (SIFF) 2026 began on Thursday at Manan Kendra, Gangtok. The event is organised by the Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Sikkim, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC).
The festival was formally inaugurated by Governor Om Prakash Mathur and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, who jointly clapped the director’s clapperboard, marking the official commencement. The ceremony was followed by a confetti display celebrating the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Tamang said hosting the first edition of SIFF 2026 is a matter of pride for Sikkim. He acknowledged the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and the NFDC for enabling the festival. He also extended greetings on the occasion of Navratri.
The Chief Minister highlighted that SIFF positions Sikkim as a centre for art, culture, and creative expression in the Eastern Himalayan region. He said the festival serves as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation in cinema, and fosters cultural exchange with international partners including the European Union.
SIFF 2026 features a short film competition open to filmmakers from India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim, and neighbouring regions, along with the SIFF Film Market, workshops, and masterclasses for industry professionals. Chief Minister Tamang emphasised that Sikkim has emerged as a growing destination for the creative economy, supported by initiatives like art galleries, the State Creative Economy Policy, Kalakar Bharosa Samman, and financial assistance to performing arts institutions.
He noted efforts to encourage film production in Sikkim, including cash incentives for films shot in the state, recognitions such as Sikkim Film Awards, Golden Voice of Sikkim, and Golden Feet, and plans for a Nepali Film Certification Board to support regional cinema.
The Chief Minister also highlighted Sikkim’s scenic landscapes and cultural richness, which have historically attracted filmmakers, citing personalities like Dev Anand, Ugen Chopel, Danny Denzongpa, and Geetanjali Thapa. He added that digital platforms have further increased the state’s visibility in global content.
Chairman of the Sikkim Music, Drama, Dance and Film Board, Tashi Tshering Bhutia, welcomed the short film competition and noted the festival’s role in promoting creative collaboration. CEO of the Producer’s Guild of India, Nitin Tej Ahuja, spoke about Sikkim’s potential as a major film production hub, citing employment generation, economic growth, and tourism opportunities.
Filmmakers from Sikkim, including Tribeny Rai, Prashant Rasaily, and Samten Bhutia, were honoured for their contributions to cinema in the state. The SIFF Short Film Competition 2026 awarded first prize to Doko Ko Chahari (directed by Sujan Lamjel), second prize to Setoghari (Anantdip Rasaily), and third prize to Eternal Kinship (Arbin Rai).
A jury of four filmmakers: Samten Bhutia, Prashant Rasaily, Vivek Rai, and Dawa Lepcha: screened the top ten shortlisted films along with five films given special mention.
The festival also featured a cultural dance performance by Dynamic Flickers Dance Academy, supported by the Art, Culture, and Heritage Board.
The welcome address was delivered by Secretary Annapurna Alley, and the vote of thanks by Special Secretary Anita Subba.
SIFF 2026 aims to showcase meaningful cinema, promote Sikkim as a filming destination, and strengthen the state’s creative economy.
