By Our Reporter
Acclaimed Khasi feature film Ha Lyngkha Bneng – The Elysian Field, directed by noted filmmaker Pradip Kurbah, has added another feather to its cap by winning the Best Feature Film award in the International Competition category at the 23rd Kathmandu Mountain International Film Festival on Sunday.
The film was screened during the festival held at QFX Chhaya Centre in Thamel, Nepal, from May 27 to 31, further cementing its growing international recognition.
This latest honour adds to the increasing global acclaim for the Khasi-language film, which has also been officially selected for the New York Indian Film Festival 2026, where it is scheduled to have its United States premiere.
The film has also secured nominations in the Best Film and Best Director categories at the New York festival, marking a significant milestone for Khasi cinema on the international stage.
Expressing gratitude over the achievement, Kurbah said the team was deeply honoured to receive the recognition at the Kathmandu festival.
“We are deeply honoured to receive this award at the Kathmandu International Film Festival. The two actors of the movie, Merlvin Mukhim and Albert Mawrie, are in Kathmandu to receive it on behalf of all of us,” he said when contacted on Monday.
He said the recognition reflected the collective effort, dedication and belief of the entire team behind Ha Lyngkha Bneng, describing it as a proud moment for Khasi cinema and for all those who continue to support stories from the region.
Kurbah also thanked Hello Meghalaya for supporting the film and encouraging local cinema.
“Their continued encouragement and commitment towards local cinema are creating opportunities for filmmakers and helping regional stories reach wider audiences. We are truly grateful for their support and for their belief in the growth of cinema from Meghalaya,” he said.
He added that the team accepted the honour with humility and dedicated it to everyone who had been part of the film’s journey.
Receiving the award, Mukhim said the team was overwhelmed with joy and wanted to share the achievement with the people of Shillong and director Pradip Kurbah. “We all share the joy, and this is tremendous for us,” he said.
Mawrie, meanwhile, expressed his gratitude to the organisers and jury for the recognition.
