By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 25: Meghalaya’s national award-winning filmmaker, Pradip Kurbah, has achieved international acclaim, bagging two top honours at the 47th Moscow International Film Festival.
His film Ha Lyngkha Bneng won Best Film, while he was named Best Director—both prestigious accolades at the main festival.
Earlier in the day, the film was also honoured by the Network for Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC) as the Best Asian Film, recognising outstanding cinema from the Asia-Pacific region.
This marks a significant moment, as it is the first time a film from Northeast has won at the Moscow International Film Festival, bringing immense pride to the region.
Kurbah, a self-taught filmmaker, expressed deep gratitude. “I’m overwhelmed, humbled and filled with gratitude. Ha Lyngkha Bneng has just won Best Film and Best Director. To say this is a dream come true would still fall short of what I feel right now,” he said.
He dedicated the honours to the people of Meghalaya and his team, saying, “This is for Meghalaya—for its people, its stories and its spirit. Your support for local cinema is what keeps us going.”
Kurbah, who previously won a national award in 2014, is widely recognised for showcasing the rich culture, local talent, and natural beauty of Meghalaya through his films.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has congratulated Kurbah for his feat.
Taking to X, the chief minister said, “Huge congratulations to Bah Pradip Kurbah on his truly well-deserved international recognition! His powerful film Ha Lyngkha Bneng has won both Best Film and Best Director at the prestigious 47th Moscow International Film Festival.”
It is pertinent to note that the state government had supported the film with Rs 30 lakh in funding.
“Bah Pradip’s work inspires, uplifts and paves the way for many more stories yet to be told. We are beyond proud and thrilled to witness his journey and the continued impact of his art,” Sangma said.