Imphal, April 9 : Manipur Governor La. Ganesan on Saturday conferred Lifetime Achievement Award to renowned filmmaker Laimayum Banka Sharma in recognition of his contribution to Manipuri Cinema as part . Ganesan also handed over Awards of different categories in the ceremony as part of 14th Manipur State Film Awards 2022 presentation at Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS), hall. Speaking on the occasion, Governor said, the awards were given to encourage the people working in the film industry of the state. He said filmmakers should make films which would show the diverse and rich culture of Manipur. This would not only help in saving the culture of the state but also help in spreading awareness to other people living outside the state. The unsung heroes of Manipur can be made known to the world through this strong media. La. Ganesan further said that cinema is a very powerful weapon to reach the masses. The reach of messages through cinema is very strong and the access is also easy. Many ideas and views when said through movies are easily accepted by the people. Movies which highlight social issues reach the masses easily and the whole issue attracts more support. Congratulating the awardees, the Governor urged them to make more films which will be remembered by all. Lauding the efforts put to organize the Manipur State Film Awards distribution ceremony by MSFDS, he complimented their sincere works to promote arts and culture in the state. Organizing such events will be a morale booster for everyone in the film industry of the state. Governor also expressed confidence that the efforts of the MSFDS will help in elevating the standard of cinema and also in encouraging the young artistes and technicians of Manipur. Water Resources Minister Awangbou Newmai while presiding over the ceremony said Manipuri Cinema has been improving considerably. More efforts should be put into developing the quality of the films so that it can compete at the international level, he added. In the same venue earlier the 15th Mami Numit was observed to commemorate the release of the first Manipuri film on the day in 1972. Renowned film maker Aribam Syam Sharma said Manipuri film has seen various changes as the state is celebrating 50 years of Manipur cinema. With proper training and guidance youths can be groomed to become good film makers, he added. M Joy Commissioner, Art and Culture , Manipur said the government will extend assistance to organize film events in a grandeur manner. Meghachandra Kongbam, film critic said Manipuri cinema began its journey with great realistic cinema however with the advent of new technologies people working in the field have to adapt and acquaint themselves with the changes. Film Forum Manipur President S Mangaljao said, “We all owe the success and accomplishments in the film world due to the great works done by our elders.” Floral tributes were offered to portraits of renowned film makers on the occasion. Musical group Sam Paa presented a beautiful musical programme during the function.
