Haobam Paban Kumar to Represent Manipur Cinema at IFFI Goa 2025

Renowned Manipuri filmmaker Haobam Paban Kumar has been invited by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, to be one of the speakers at a panel discussion during the forthcoming International Film Festival of India (IFFI), scheduled to begin on November 20, 2025, in Goa.

The panel discussion, titled “New North East Cinema and Film Schools,” will be held on November 27, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Other speakers include filmmakers Reema Borah and Maharishi Tuhin Kashyap, while Garo filmmaker Dominic Sangma will serve as the moderator.

According to the IFFI festival authority, “This topic analyses the emerging new wave of filmmakers from Indian film schools, particularly those from the Northeast region. It examines how these institutions serve as a crucible for unique voices, bringing fresh perspectives and narratives to Indian cinema. The discussion focuses on the impact and rise to prominence of these directors on the Indian cinematic landscape.”

An alumnus of Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute (SRFTI), Kolkata, Haobam Paban Kumar is among the most influential voices in Manipuri and Indian cinema. His films – notably AFSPA, 1958 and Loktak Lairembee – have earned multiple National Film Awards and have been showcased at leading international festivals, including Berlin and Busan.

A recipient of the Swarna Kamal (Golden Lotus) Award, Haobam Paban Kumar was earlier honoured as the Legend of Indian Cinema at the 50th International Film Festival of India, Goa. His works are widely acclaimed for their socially engaged themes and cinematic realism that highlight the complexities of life in Manipur and the Northeast.

In addition to his participation at IFFI Goa, Haobam Paban Kumar will also serve as a Jury Member at the 31st Kolkata International Film Festival 2025, to be held from November 6 to 13 in Kolkata.