The 3rd Northeast India International Film Festival (NIIFF) 2025 came to a grand close at Mayor Hall, Andheri West, Mumbai on September 27, showcasing the cultural richness and cinematic excellence of the Northeast. The evening opened with a moving tribute to the late Zubeen Garg, legendary singer of the region, followed by a soulful performance from award-winning Naga artist NK Naga, recipient of the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar.
The festival was graced by distinguished guests including Hon. Consul of Tanzania in Chennai, Krishna Pimple, who served as Chief Guest, alongside Aslam Shaikh, Sunil Zode, Veteran Actor Rajendra Gupta, Atul Kulkarni, Akashaditya Lama, Soma Rathod, and others.
This year’s edition placed a special spotlight on women filmmakers, honoring their contributions and encouraging emerging voices from the region.
Major Award Winners:
Best Feature Film: Taarikh – Himjyoti Talukdar
2nd Best Feature Film: Kainkhol (My Family) – Sng Pearson Anal
Best Feature Film (Jury): Adi – Dibakar Pegu
Best Director: Amateurs – Dhiraj Kashyap
Best Debut Director: Otharei – Save My Soul – Dinesh Naorem Sorokhaibam
Best Actor: Boloram Das (Taarikh)
Best Actress: Anindita Rudraj (Jhankar – The Melody of Resonance)
Best Women Filmmaker: The Cry of a Lifeless – Bhawani Doley Tahu
Other recognitions spanned short films, documentaries, experimental cinema, and jury awards, reflecting the diversity of talent across the region.
Founder Rebecca Changkija Sema reiterated NIIFF’s mission to bridge Northeast India with the global film industry, while Co-founder Siraz Henry expressed gratitude to the participants and partners for strengthening the festival’s vision.
