IMPHAL, NOVEMBER 26: Calling for a more inclusive and thoughtful film ecosystem, Manipuri film critic Meghachandra Kongbam underscored on Wednesday the need for policies that formally recognize the review and promotion of lesser-known independent films and regional cinema, a statement from the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) said today.
Meghachandra was speaking at a roundtable discussion titled “Beyond the Thumb: The Role of a Film Critic – A Gatekeeper, An Influencer or Something Else?” at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), held in Goa.
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Highlighting India’s vast cinematic diversity, Meghachandra Kongbam noted that over 2,000 films are produced annually in more than 50 languages, yet only a fraction receives critical attention. He emphasized that without dedicated criticism, many regional and independent films simply disappear from public consciousness. The roundtable brought together leading critics from across the world, including Barbara Lorey De Lacharriere from Paris, Elizabeth Kerr from Hong Kong, and India’s own Deepak Gahlot, Sudhir Srinivasan and Baradwaj Rangan, with Davide Abbatescianni from Rome moderating the discussion. The panel explored how the role of critics is shifting amid rapid technological changes, the rise of digital consumption, and the dominance of social media verdicts.
Speakers reflected on the growing challenges faced by critics in the digital age, where instant reactions often overpower thoughtful analysis. Sudhir Srinivasan remarked that “the critic’s struggle today is to remain sincere when speed is valued more than depth.” The panel collectively agreed that a strong critical culture pushes filmmakers to innovate, audiences to think deeply and the industry to embrace diversity. The session ended with a shared belief that while platforms and tools may change, the essence of film criticism remains rooted in curiosity, responsibility and the commitment to champion the full spectrum of cinema—especially those powerful stories that risk being overlooked.
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At the 56th IFFI Goa, held from November 21 to 28, Manipur stood tall with a robust presence across multiple fronts of filmmaking. Two films made it to the Indian Panorama—Battlefield by Borun Thokchom in the documentary section and Oitharei by Dinesh Naorem in the fiction category. In the Wave Film Bazaar’s Co-Production Market, Ashok Vileu and Alexander Leo Pou’s Night & Day featured alongside noted filmmaker Haobam Paban Kumar’s Nupi Keithel. Ajit Yumnam’s Sunita was showcased in the Viewing Room. Both Haobam Paban Kumar and acclaimed Manipuri film critic Meghachandra Kongbam also took part in separate panel discussions, adding further depth to Manipur’s imprint in Goa.
Further strengthening this collective presence, additional crew members of Battlefield and Oitharei— including Momoson, Suraj Ngasekpam, and senior actor Lalitabi—participated with support from the community fund drive, bolstered significantly by the contribution of the CEO, Manipur, the MSFDS added.