The three-day Nagaland CineFest 2025 concluded on Monday, featuring a series of master classes, discussions and film screenings. Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment and Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), Abu Metha, graced the closing ceremony as the special guest.
In his address, Metha stressed the need for narratives from Nagaland to reach global audiences. He said that the aspirations, struggles, and pursuit of peace of the Naga people must be expressed through stories, books, films and other creative mediums rather than through violent means. Commending the Dreamz Unlimited team for being “excellent ambassadors” for Nagaland, he praised their contributions to the state’s film industry.
Metha lauded the Department of Information & Public Relations (DIPR) for organizing the CineFest, noting that the department has recently emerged as one of the most vibrant in the state, diversifying into new verticals and creating opportunities for creativity, innovation and storytelling. He urged artists and innovators across all fields to highlight Nagaland’s culture and way of life through their work. Emphasizing the influence of social media and modern technology, he encouraged creators to leverage digital tools to expand their reach.
Calling for the CineFest to eventually grow into a national and international event, Metha expressed hope that Nagaland’s creative economy, which he said is among the strongest in the Northeast—will continue to flourish. He said the state is only at the beginning of what promises to be a long and fruitful journey for filmmakers and storytellers.
Earlier in the session, IPR director Dzüvinuo Theünuo, in her welcome address, described it as an honour for the department to host Nagaland CineFest 2025. She acknowledged the support of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) under the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, as well as the encouragement received from the Government of Nagaland. The Chief Secretary, in a message, reiterated the government’s commitment to creating learning and innovation opportunities for youth in the field of cinema.
The final day featured a masterclass on film appreciation by writer-director Niyaz Mujawar, followed by a session on smartphone filmmaking conducted by filmmaker and strategist Adarsh Jain. In the afternoon, the film “The Missing Tourist”, produced by Dreamz Unlimited in collaboration with DIPR, was screened.
A Special Jury Award was presented to Kivini Shohe in recognition of her dedication and contributions to film.
Results of HIPFEST 2025, held under the theme “Seasons of Nagaland,” were also announced. The photography contest saw 97 participants and showcased 264 entries. Pelevizo Meyase, Tshetsholo Naro and Asakho Chase secured the first, second and third prizes respectively. In the category awards, Avimanyu Banerjee won Best Portrait, Moasunep Pongen took Best Landscape, and Atam Wangsa was awarded Best Wildlife.
