Films a means to cultural integration: Governor
SHILLONG: “Films are the most powerful form of expression in the media, bringing joy, laughter and tears to our eyes. These festivals not only give the opportunity to watch movies, but also to motivate talent to come up. They are also a source of learning,” Governor Dr. K.K. Paul said on Monday.
The North East is a multi-shaded mosaic and its cultural interaction and integration with the rest of the country can be aptly achieved through the medium of films, the Governor said during the inauguration of the Indian Panorama Film Festival that got off to a glamorous and vibrant start here on Monday.
Dr. Paul inaugurated the Film Festival at the U Soso Tham Auditorium here in the presence of Information and Public Relations Minister AL Hek, besides a host of stars and starlets from mainstream Indian cinema including critically acclaimed Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Kainaat Arora and Bruna Abdullah.
The inauguration was provided with colour by an array of cultural performances involving dance and songs from around the State.
The film festival has been brought to the state by the Government of India’s Information and Broadcasting Ministry in collaboration with the Department of Information and Public Relations, Government of Meghalaya and the Directorate of Film Festivals.
Earlier in the day, Hek opened a photo exhibition on 100 Years of Indian Cinema at the State Convention Centre.
After the inaugural function at U Soso Tham Auditorium, the first film of the four-day event was screened – Dekh Indian Circus – starring Siddiqui in the lead actor.
The films to be screened on Tuesday are Ka Lad (Khasi) and Ajana Batas (Bengali). There will also be workshop on cinematography.
Another highlight will be a special seminar at the State Convention Centre on the subject of promoting Meghalaya as a filming destination.
The seminar will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Dr. Mukul Sangma at 10 am.