Meitei cinema: Difference between revisions

What links here Related changes Page information Get shortened URL
Created by Ajay Kumar
Last edited March 22, 2026
VisualWikitext
Created a new article
 
CleanupBot (talk | contribs)
Bots
17,809 edits
m Robot: Replacing encoded entity with character
 
(2 intermediate revisions by 2 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|Indian Meitei-language film industry}}
{{Short description|none}} <!-- "none" is preferred when the title is sufficiently descriptive; see [[WP:SDNONE]] -->
{{About|the [[Manipuri language]] film industry|the entire film industry of [[Manipur]]|Cinema of Manipur}}
{{About|the Manipuri-language film industry|the entire film industry of Manipur|Cinema of Manipur}}
{{Redirect|Manipuri-language cinema|other uses|Manipuri cinema (disambiguation){{!}}Manipuri cinema}}
{{See|Meitei language in Bangladesh#Meitei cinema}}
{{See|Meitei language in Bangladesh#Meitei cinema}}
{{Contains special characters|Meitei}}
{{Contains special characters|Meitei}}
{{Under construction}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=December 2023}}
{{Use Indian English|date=December 2023}}
{{Infobox cinema market
{{Infobox cinema market
| name                  = Meitei cinema <br /> Maniwood
| name                  = Meitei cinema <br /> Maniwood
Line 23: Line 23:
| produced_documentary  =  
| produced_documentary  =  
| admissions_year      =  
| admissions_year      =  
| admissions_ref        = <!-- <ref name=adm_gross_uis>{{cite web|title=Table 11: Exhibition - Admissions & Gross Box Office (GBO)|url=http://stats.uis.unesco.org/unesco/TableViewer/tableView.aspx?ReportId=5538|publisher=UNESCO Institute for Statistics|accessdate=5 November 2013}}</ref> -->
| admissions_ref        = <!-- <ref name=adm_gross_uis>{{cite web|title=Table 11: Exhibition - Admissions &amp; Gross Box Office (GBO)|url=http://stats.uis.unesco.org/unesco/TableViewer/tableView.aspx?ReportId=5538|publisher=UNESCO Institute for Statistics|accessdate=5 November 2013}}</ref> -->
| admissions_total      =  
| admissions_total      =  
| admissions_per_capita =  
| admissions_per_capita =  
Line 33: Line 33:
| footnotes            =  
| footnotes            =  
}}
}}
'''Meitei cinema''' ({{lang-mni|{{Script|Mtei|Meitei Mami Kumhei}}|}}), also known as '''Maniwood''' ({{lang-mni|{{Script|Mtei|Manipuri Mami Kumhei}}|}}), is the segment of [[Indian cinema]] dedicated to the production of motion pictures in the [[Meitei language]] (officially called [[Manipuri language]]), widely spoken in the state of [[Manipur]]. The popular term '''Maniwood''', is a [[portmanteau]] of "[[Manipuri language|Manipuri]]" (official name of [[Meitei language|Meitei]]) and "[[Cinema of the United States|Hollywood]]".
'''Meitei cinema''' ({{langx|mni|{{Script|Mtei|Meitei Mami Kumhei}}|}}), also known as '''Maniwood''', is the segment of [[Indian cinema]] dedicated to the production of motion pictures in the [[Meitei language]] (officially called [[Manipuri language]]), widely spoken in the state of [[Manipur]]. The popular term '''Maniwood''', is a [[portmanteau]] of "Manipuri" (official name of Meitei) and "[[Cinema of the United States|Hollywood]]". Since its inception, Meitei cinema has played a significant role in the [[Meitei linguistic purism movement]], often emphasizing proper Meitei language in place of pidgin dialects.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bag |first=Shamik |date=2015-10-10 |title=Being a movie buff in Imphal |url=https://www.livemint.com/Leisure/7OfxOV3BcgFAa8ERcsf2tI/Being-a-movie-buff-in-Imphal.html |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=mint |language=en}}</ref>


{{langnf|mni|[[Matamgi Manipur]]|Today's Manipur}} (1972) is the first [[Meitei language]] film and also the first full-length [[cinema of Manipur]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Matamgi Manipur on Moviebuff.com |url=https://www.moviebuff.com/matamgi-manipur |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=Moviebuff.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Manipuri cinema in the last three decades |url=http://e-pao.net/epPageExtractor.asp?src=features.Manipuri_cinema_in_the_last_three_decades.html.. |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=e-pao.net}}</ref> It won the President's Medal (Rashtriya Chalchitra Purashkar) at the [[20th National Film Awards]] (1972 edition).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Now Showing MATAMGI MANIPUR |url=http://www.e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=reviews.movies.Now_Showing_-_MATAMGI_MANIPUR |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=www.e-pao.net}}</ref>
The origins of Meitei cinema date back to {{langnf|mni|[[Matamgi Manipur]]|Today's Manipur}}, released in 1972 as the first full-length Meitei-language film and the first film made in Manipur.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Matamgi Manipur on Moviebuff.com |url=https://www.moviebuff.com/matamgi-manipur |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=Moviebuff.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Manipuri cinema in the last three decades |url=http://e-pao.net/epPageExtractor.asp?src=features.Manipuri_cinema_in_the_last_three_decades.html.. |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=e-pao.net}}</ref> The film won the President's Medal at the [[20th National Film Awards]], establishing a milestone in Manipuri cinema.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Now Showing MATAMGI MANIPUR |url=http://www.e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=reviews.movies.Now_Showing_-_MATAMGI_MANIPUR |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=www.e-pao.net}}</ref> Another landmark came with {{langnf|mni|[[Imagi Ningthem]]|[[My Son, My Precious]]}} in 1981, which brought international recognition by winning the [[Golden Montgolfiere]] at the 1982 [[Festival des 3 Continents]] in [[Nantes]], elevating Indian cinema on the global stage.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Digitised Imagi Ningthem screened at Pune film fest : 15th jan14 ~ E-Pao! Headlines |url=http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=16..150114.jan14 |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=e-pao.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-04-06 |title=New book traces journey of Manipuri cinema |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/new-book-traces-journey-of-manipuri-cinema/article65295376.ece |access-date=2023-07-31 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>


{{langnf|mni|[[Imagi Ningthem]]|[[My Son, My Precious]]}} (1981) is the  
In 1990, {{langnf|mni|[[Ishanou]]|[[The Chosen One (1990 film)|The Chosen One]]}} gained further acclaim, being screened in the [[Un Certain Regard]] section at the [[1991 Cannes Film Festival]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Festival de Cannes: The Chosen One |url=http://www.festival-cannes.com/en/archives/ficheFilm/id/131/year/1991.html |access-date=10 August 2009 |work=festival-cannes.com}}</ref> This film was re-recognized in [[2023 Cannes Film Festival|2023]] by [[Cannes Film Festival|Cannes]] as a "World Classic," marking its significance as the only Indian film selected for the event that year.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-05-06 |title=Manipuri feature film 'ISHANOU' recognised as World Classic |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/manipuri-feature-film-ishanou-recognised-as-world-classic/articleshow/100038686.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-07-31 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Aribam Syam Sharma's ISHANOU recognised as World Classic |url=https://www.ifp.co.in/movies/aribam-syam-sharmas-ishanou-recognised-as-world-classic |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=[[Imphal Free Press]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Manipuri Film 'Ishanou' Becomes India's Only Restored Film To Be Screened At Cannes 2023 |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/manipuri-film-ishanou-becomes-india-s-only-restored-film-to-be-screened-at-cannes-2023-news-284573 |website=Outlook India}}</ref> Additionally, {{langnf|mni|[[Keibu Keioiba]]|[[Tiger-Head]]}} became the first animation film in the Meitei language and in Manipuri cinema in 2009.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Naorem Nishikanta |date=2013-11-07 |title=Bhumenjoy Konsam on the Chemistry of Making Keibu-Kei-Oiba – Part II {{!}} Manipur Times |url=https://manipurtimes.com/bhumenjoy-konsam-on-the-chemistry-of-making-keibu-kei-oiba-part-ii/ |access-date=2023-07-31 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Manipur fable from Shrek stable - Pune-based visual designer makes region's first animation film |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/manipur-fable-from-shrek-stable-pune-based-visual-designer-makes-region-s-first-animation-film/cid/713160 |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=www.telegraphindia.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Naorem Nishikanta |date=2013-10-22 |title=Bhumenjoy Konsam on the Chemistry of Making Keibu-Kei-Oiba – Part I {{!}} Manipur Times |url=https://manipurtimes.com/bhumenjoy-konsam-on-the-chemistry-of-making-keibu-kei-oiba-part-i/ |access-date=2023-07-31 |language=en-US}}</ref>
[[Three Continents Festival#List of Montgolfière d'or winners|only Indian film]] that gets the [[Golden Montgolfiere]] at the [[Festival des 3 Continents]], [[Nantes]] in 1982, bringing fame and honour of the Indian cinema at the international platform.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Digitised Imagi Ningthem screened at Pune film fest : 15th jan14 ~ E-Pao! Headlines |url=http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=16..150114.jan14 |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=e-pao.net}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-04-06 |title=New book traces journey of Manipuri cinema |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/new-book-traces-journey-of-manipuri-cinema/article65295376.ece |access-date=2023-07-31 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>


{{langnf|mni|[[Ishanou]]|[[The Chosen One (1990 film)|The Chosen One]]}} (1990) was screened in the [[Un Certain Regard]] section at the [[1991 Cannes Film Festival]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.festival-cannes.com/en/archives/ficheFilm/id/131/year/1991.html |title=Festival de Cannes: The Chosen One |access-date=10 August 2009 |work=festival-cannes.com}}</ref> and again after a gap of 33 years, it was recognised as a "World Classic" by the [[2023 Cannes Film Festival]]. Notably, it was the only film selected from India for the event in that year.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-05-06 |title=Manipuri feature film 'ISHANOU’ recognised as World Classic |work=The Economic Times |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/manipuri-feature-film-ishanou-recognised-as-world-classic/articleshow/100038686.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-07-31 |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Aribam Syam Sharma's ISHANOU recognised as World Classic |url=https://www.ifp.co.in/movies/aribam-syam-sharmas-ishanou-recognised-as-world-classic |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=[[Imphal Free Press]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Manipuri Film ‘Ishanou’ Becomes India’s Only Restored Film To Be Screened At Cannes 2023 |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/manipuri-film-ishanou-becomes-india-s-only-restored-film-to-be-screened-at-cannes-2023-news-284573 |website=Outlook India}}</ref>
Reflecting local culture, since 2012, Maniwood has observed a dress code guideline: “If you wear jeans thrice on screen, you have to wear Manipuri dresses four times.” This practice reflects the Maniwood culture’s dedication to representing the Manipuri lifestyle and traditional attire. According to acclaimed director [[Aribam Syam Sharma]], Meitei cinema authentically portrays the way of life and thinking of the [[Manipuris|Manipuri]] people.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bag |first=Shamik |date=2015-10-10 |title=Being a movie buff in Imphal |url=https://www.livemint.com/Leisure/7OfxOV3BcgFAa8ERcsf2tI/Being-a-movie-buff-in-Imphal.html |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=mint |language=en}}</ref>


{{langnf|mni|[[Keibu Keioiba]]|[[Tiger-Head]]}} (2009) is the first animation film in [[Meitei language]] as well as in the [[cinema of Manipur]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Naorem Nishikanta |date=2013-11-07 |title=Bhumenjoy Konsam on the Chemistry of Making Keibu-Kei-Oiba – Part II {{!}} Manipur Times |url=https://manipurtimes.com/bhumenjoy-konsam-on-the-chemistry-of-making-keibu-kei-oiba-part-ii/ |access-date=2023-07-31 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Manipur fable from Shrek stable - Pune-based visual designer makes region's first animation film |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/manipur-fable-from-shrek-stable-pune-based-visual-designer-makes-region-s-first-animation-film/cid/713160 |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=www.telegraphindia.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Singh |first=Naorem Nishikanta |date=2013-10-22 |title=Bhumenjoy Konsam on the Chemistry of Making Keibu-Kei-Oiba – Part I {{!}} Manipur Times |url=https://manipurtimes.com/bhumenjoy-konsam-on-the-chemistry-of-making-keibu-kei-oiba-part-i/ |access-date=2023-07-31 |language=en-US}}</ref>
Today, ''Ishanou'', ''Oneness'', and ''[[Eikhoigi Yum]]'' are among the top-rated Manipuri films on [[IMDb]] as of 2023, showcasing the enduring appeal of Meitei cinema among audiences.<ref>{{Cite news |date=22 August 2023 |title=Ishanou, Oneness, and Eikhoigi Yum become IMDb's top 3 Manipuri movies |url=https://www.eastmojo.com/manipur/2023/08/22/ishanou-oneness-and-eikhoigi-yum-become-imdbs-top-3-manipuri-movies/ |access-date=23 August 2023 |work=East Mojo}}</ref>
 
Since 2012, in Maniwood cinematic culture, there has been a general guideline regarding the dress code shown in the films as ''“If you wear jeans thrice on screen, you have to wear Manipuri dresses four times.”''
Playing a crucial role in the [[Meitei linguistic purism movement]], Meitei cinema frequently practices the use of proper [[Meitei language]] instead of any [[pidgin language]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bag |first=Shamik |date=2015-10-10 |title=Being a movie buff in Imphal |url=https://www.livemint.com/Leisure/7OfxOV3BcgFAa8ERcsf2tI/Being-a-movie-buff-in-Imphal.html |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=mint |language=en}}</ref>
 
[[Aribam Syam Sharma]], a renowned director of Meitei cinema, is of the opinion that Maniwood reflects the way of living and thinking of the [[Manipuris]] and there is no better way to express themselves than it (Meitei cinema).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bag |first=Shamik |date=2015-10-10 |title=Being a movie buff in Imphal |url=https://www.livemint.com/Leisure/7OfxOV3BcgFAa8ERcsf2tI/Being-a-movie-buff-in-Imphal.html |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=mint |language=en}}</ref>


== History ==
== History ==
=== Era of celluloid classic feature films (1972-1989) ===
{{Expand list|date=August 2023}}
{| class="wikitable"
! Year
! Original Title <br /> {{small|(in [[Meitei script]])}}
! [[Romanization]]
! Director
! Producer
! Banner
! Format
! Note(s)/Reference(s)
|-
| 1972
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|[[ꯃꯇꯝꯒꯤ ꯃꯅꯤꯄꯨꯔ]]}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|[[Matamgee Manipur]]}}|}}
| Deb Kumar Bose
| K. Manimohan
| T.K. Films Private Ltd.
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid">{{Cite web |title=major film - E-rang Classic :: E-pao Movie Channel |url=http://e-pao.org/erang/Classic/write/major_film.php |access-date=2023-08-09 |website=e-pao.org}}</ref><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic">{{Cite web |title=Manipuri Feature Films 1972 1997 - E-rang Classic |url=http://e-pao.org/erang/Classic/write/Manipuri_Feature_Films_1972_1997.php |access-date=2023-08-09 |website=}}</ref>
|-
| 1973
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|[[ꯕ꯭ꯔꯣꯖꯦꯟꯗ꯭ꯔꯣ ꯒꯤ ꯂꯨꯍꯣꯡꯕ]]}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|[[Brojendra Gee Luhongba]]}}|}}
| S.N. Chand
| S.N. Chand
| Sajatia Pictures
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1974
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|[[ꯂꯝꯖꯥ ꯄꯔꯁꯨꯔꯥꯝ]]}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|[[Lamja Parsuram]]}}|}}
| Aribam Syam Sharma
| G. Narayan Sharma
| N.S. Films
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1974
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|ꯉꯛ-ꯏ-ꯀꯣ ꯅꯪꯁꯦ}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|Ngak-E-Ko Nangse}}|}}
| S.N. Chand
| W. Basant Kumar
| Poonam Films
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1976
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|[[ꯁꯥꯐꯕꯤ]]}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|[[Shaphabee]]}}|}}
| Aribam Syam Sharma
| G. Narayan Sharma
| N.S. Films
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1979
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|ꯈꯨꯊꯥꯡ ꯂꯝꯖꯦꯜ}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|Khuthang Lamjel}}|}}
| G.C. Tongbra
| Th. Haridas
| A.T. Films
| 35mm Black and White (some parts were colour)
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1979
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|[[ꯑꯣꯂꯥꯡꯊꯥꯒꯤ ꯋꯥꯡꯃꯗꯁꯨ]]}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|[[Olangthagee Wangmadasoo]]}}|}}
| Aribam Syam Sharma
| G. Narayan Sharma
| N.S. Films
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1981
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|[[ꯏꯃꯥꯒꯤ ꯅꯤꯡꯊꯦꯝ]]}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|[[Imagee Ningthem]]}}|}}
| Aribam Syam Sharma
| K. Ibohal Sharma
| X-Cine Productions
| 16mm Converted to 35mm blowup (Black and White)
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1981
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|ꯈꯣꯟꯖꯦꯜ}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|Khonjel}}|}}
| M.Nilamani
| M.Nilamani
| Anjana Films
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1981
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|ꯋꯥꯡꯃ ꯋꯥꯡꯃ}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|Wangma Wangma}}|}}
| L. Banka Sharma
| L. Shyamsundar
| Eastern Star Films
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1983
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|[[ꯁꯅꯥꯀꯩꯊꯦꯜ]]}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|[[Sanakeithel]]}}|}}
| M.A. Singh
| Doren Thoudam
| A.T.B. Films International (India)
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1984
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|ꯂꯥꯡꯂꯦꯟ ꯊꯥꯗꯣꯏ}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|Langlen Thadoi}}|}}
| M.A. Singh
| Kh. Shakhi Devi
| Kay Pee Films International (India)
| 16mm Convert-ed to 35mm blowup (Colour)
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1984
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|ꯌꯥꯏꯔꯤꯄꯣꯛ ꯊꯝꯕꯥꯜꯅꯨ}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|Yairipok Thambalnu}}|}}
| L. Banka Sharma
| H. Gehendra
| Liberty Films
| 35mm Black and White
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1987
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|ꯏꯆꯦ ꯁꯈꯤ}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|Eche Shakhi}}|}}
| Doren Thoudam & H. Ibotombi
| Doren Thoudam
| A.T.B. Films International (India)
| 16mm Converted to 35mm blowup Colour
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|-
| 1989
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Mtei|[[ꯀꯣꯝꯕꯤꯔꯩ]]}}|}}
| {{lang|mni|{{Script|Latn|[[Kombirei]]}}|}}
| G. Narayan Sharma
| G. Narayan Sharma
| N.S. Films
| 35mm Colour
| <ref name=":E-rang_Classic_Celluloid" /><ref name=":Feature_Films_Classic" />
|}


== Cast and crew ==
== Cast and crew ==
Line 59: Line 200:
* [[:en:Shougrakpam Hemanta|Shougrakpam Hemanta]]
* [[:en:Shougrakpam Hemanta|Shougrakpam Hemanta]]
* [[:en:Kaiku Rajkumar|Kaiku Rajkumar]]
* [[:en:Kaiku Rajkumar|Kaiku Rajkumar]]
* [[Priyakanta Laishram]]
* [[:en:Makhonmani Mongsaba|Makhonmani Mongsaba]]
* [[:en:Makhonmani Mongsaba|Makhonmani Mongsaba]]
* [[:en:Lairenjam Olen|Lairenjam Olen]]
* [[:en:Lairenjam Olen|Lairenjam Olen]]
Line 81: Line 223:
* [[:en:Kamala Saikhom|Kamala Saikhom]]
* [[:en:Kamala Saikhom|Kamala Saikhom]]
* [[Huirem Seema]]
* [[Huirem Seema]]
* [[:en:Tara (actress)|Tara (actress)]]
* [[:en:Tara (Assamese actress)|Tara]]


=== Directors ===
=== Directors ===
Line 92: Line 234:
* [[:en:Aribam Syam Sharma|Aribam Syam Sharma]]
* [[:en:Aribam Syam Sharma|Aribam Syam Sharma]]
* [[:en:Bobby Wahengbam|Bobby Wahengbam]]
* [[:en:Bobby Wahengbam|Bobby Wahengbam]]
* [[Priyakanta Laishram]]


== Awards ==
== Awards ==
Line 114: Line 257:
|| [[:en:Aribam Syam Sharma|Aribam Syam Sharma]]
|| [[:en:Aribam Syam Sharma|Aribam Syam Sharma]]
||  
||  
|-
|2018
|[[Who Said Boys Can't Wear Makeup?]]
|[[Priyakanta Laishram]]
|<ref>{{Cite news |date=3 October 2023 |title=Manipuri-English film promoting gender-neutral fashion to be screened in Mumbai |url=https://www.eastmojo.com/entertainment/2023/10/03/manipuri-english-film-promoting-gender-neutral-fashion-to-be-screened-in-mumbai/ |access-date=7 October 2023}}</ref>
|-
|2024
|[[Oneness (film)]]
|[[Priyakanta Laishram]]
|<ref>{{Cite news |date=25 April 2022 |title=A Manipur film tackles sexual identity for first time |work=The Indian Express |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/a-manipur-film-tackles-sexual-identity-for-first-time-7885549/ |access-date=14 August 2023}}</ref>
|}
|}


Line 124: Line 277:
|| [[My Japanese Niece]]
|| [[My Japanese Niece]]
|| Mohen Naorem
|| Mohen Naorem
||<ref>{{Cite web |title=My Japanese Niece Movie Review (2015) - Rating, Cast & Crew With Synopsis |url=https://nettv4u.com/movie-review/english/my-japanese-niece |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=nettv4u |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Times |first=Manipur |date=2013-03-19 |title=“My Japanese Niece” – a masterpiece from Mohen Naorem {{!}} Manipur Times |url=https://manipurtimes.com/my-japanese-niece-a-masterpiece-from-mohen-naorem/ |access-date=2023-07-31 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=100 Thai soldiers to act in Manipuri film 'My Japanese Niece' : 19th mar13 ~ E-Pao! Headlines |url=http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=3..190313.mar13 |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=e-pao.net}}</ref>
||<ref>{{Cite web |title=My Japanese Niece Movie Review (2015) - Rating, Cast &amp; Crew With Synopsis |url=https://nettv4u.com/movie-review/english/my-japanese-niece |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=nettv4u |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Times |first=Manipur |date=2013-03-19 |title="My Japanese Niece" – a masterpiece from Mohen Naorem {{!}} Manipur Times |url=https://manipurtimes.com/my-japanese-niece-a-masterpiece-from-mohen-naorem/ |access-date=2023-07-31 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=100 Thai soldiers to act in Manipuri film 'My Japanese Niece' : 19th mar13 ~ E-Pao! Headlines |url=http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=3..190313.mar13 |access-date=2023-07-31 |website=e-pao.net}}</ref>
|}
|}


Line 147: Line 300:
|| Language of War
|| Language of War
|| R.V. Ramani
|| R.V. Ramani
|| <ref>{{Cite web |title=Films by R. V. Ramani |url=http://www.ramanifilms.com/?page_id=6 |access-date=2023-07-31 |quote=LANGUAGE OF WAR 50 minutes, Tamil/Manipuri, 1996. Photographed, Edited, Directed and Produced by R.V.Ramani}}</ref>
|| <ref>{{Cite web |title=Films by R. V. Ramani |url=http://www.ramanifilms.com/?page_id=6 |access-date=2023-07-31 |quote=LANGUAGE OF WAR 50 minutes, Tamil/Manipuri, 1996. Photographed, Edited, Directed and Produced by R.V.Ramani}}</ref>
|}
|}


Line 173: Line 326:
== External links ==
== External links ==
{{Commonscat}}
{{Commonscat}}
{{Portal|Arts|Asia|Cinema|India|Technology}}
{{Portal bar|Arts|Asia|Cinema|India|Technology}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}
 
{{Cinema of India}}
{{World cinema}}
[[Category:Meitei language]]
[[Category:Meitei language]]
[[Category:Indian film industries]]
[[Category:Indian film industries]]
[[Category:Cinema of Manipur]]
[[Category:Cinema by language of India]]

Latest revision as of 09:39, 22 March 2026


This article is about the Manipuri-language film industry. For the entire film industry of Manipur, see Cinema of Manipur.
Further information: Meitei language in Bangladesh § Meitei cinema

Meitei cinema
Maniwood
An illustration of the Maniwood clapperboard
Main distributors
  • Film Forum Manipur (FFM)
  • Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS)
Produced feature films
Total60-70[1][2]

Meitei cinema (Script error: The function "langx" does not exist.), also known as Maniwood, is the segment of Indian cinema dedicated to the production of motion pictures in the Meitei language (officially called Manipuri language), widely spoken in the state of Manipur. The popular term Maniwood, is a portmanteau of "Manipuri" (official name of Meitei) and "Hollywood". Since its inception, Meitei cinema has played a significant role in the Meitei linguistic purism movement, often emphasizing proper Meitei language in place of pidgin dialects.[3]

The origins of Meitei cinema date back to Matamgi Manipur (Meitei for 'Today's Manipur'), released in 1972 as the first full-length Meitei-language film and the first film made in Manipur.[4][5] The film won the President's Medal at the 20th National Film Awards, establishing a milestone in Manipuri cinema.[6] Another landmark came with Imagi Ningthem (Meitei for 'My Son, My Precious') in 1981, which brought international recognition by winning the Golden Montgolfiere at the 1982 Festival des 3 Continents in Nantes, elevating Indian cinema on the global stage.[7][8]

In 1990, Ishanou (Meitei for 'The Chosen One') gained further acclaim, being screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 1991 Cannes Film Festival.[9] This film was re-recognized in 2023 by Cannes as a "World Classic," marking its significance as the only Indian film selected for the event that year.[10][11][12] Additionally, Keibu Keioiba (Meitei for 'Tiger-Head') became the first animation film in the Meitei language and in Manipuri cinema in 2009.[13][14][15]

Reflecting local culture, since 2012, Maniwood has observed a dress code guideline: “If you wear jeans thrice on screen, you have to wear Manipuri dresses four times.” This practice reflects the Maniwood culture’s dedication to representing the Manipuri lifestyle and traditional attire. According to acclaimed director Aribam Syam Sharma, Meitei cinema authentically portrays the way of life and thinking of the Manipuri people.[16]

Today, Ishanou, Oneness, and Eikhoigi Yum are among the top-rated Manipuri films on IMDb as of 2023, showcasing the enduring appeal of Meitei cinema among audiences.[17]

History[edit | edit source]

Era of celluloid classic feature films (1972-1989)[edit | edit source]

This list is incomplete; you can help by adding missing items with reliable sources.
Year Original Title
(in Meitei script) 		Romanization Director Producer Banner Format Note(s)/Reference(s)
1972 ꯃꯇꯝꯒꯤ ꯃꯅꯤꯄꯨꯔ Matamgee Manipur Deb Kumar Bose K. Manimohan T.K. Films Private Ltd. 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1973 ꯕ꯭ꯔꯣꯖꯦꯟꯗ꯭ꯔꯣ ꯒꯤ ꯂꯨꯍꯣꯡꯕ Brojendra Gee Luhongba S.N. Chand S.N. Chand Sajatia Pictures 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1974 ꯂꯝꯖꯥ ꯄꯔꯁꯨꯔꯥꯝ Lamja Parsuram Aribam Syam Sharma G. Narayan Sharma N.S. Films 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1974 ꯉꯛ-ꯏ-ꯀꯣ ꯅꯪꯁꯦ Ngak-E-Ko Nangse S.N. Chand W. Basant Kumar Poonam Films 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1976 ꯁꯥꯐꯕꯤ Shaphabee Aribam Syam Sharma G. Narayan Sharma N.S. Films 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1979 ꯈꯨꯊꯥꯡ ꯂꯝꯖꯦꯜ Khuthang Lamjel G.C. Tongbra Th. Haridas A.T. Films 35mm Black and White (some parts were colour) [18][19]
1979 ꯑꯣꯂꯥꯡꯊꯥꯒꯤ ꯋꯥꯡꯃꯗꯁꯨ Olangthagee Wangmadasoo Aribam Syam Sharma G. Narayan Sharma N.S. Films 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1981 ꯏꯃꯥꯒꯤ ꯅꯤꯡꯊꯦꯝ Imagee Ningthem Aribam Syam Sharma K. Ibohal Sharma X-Cine Productions 16mm Converted to 35mm blowup (Black and White) [18][19]
1981 ꯈꯣꯟꯖꯦꯜ Khonjel M.Nilamani M.Nilamani Anjana Films 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1981 ꯋꯥꯡꯃ ꯋꯥꯡꯃ Wangma Wangma L. Banka Sharma L. Shyamsundar Eastern Star Films 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1983 ꯁꯅꯥꯀꯩꯊꯦꯜ Sanakeithel M.A. Singh Doren Thoudam A.T.B. Films International (India) 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1984 ꯂꯥꯡꯂꯦꯟ ꯊꯥꯗꯣꯏ Langlen Thadoi M.A. Singh Kh. Shakhi Devi Kay Pee Films International (India) 16mm Convert-ed to 35mm blowup (Colour) [18][19]
1984 ꯌꯥꯏꯔꯤꯄꯣꯛ ꯊꯝꯕꯥꯜꯅꯨ Yairipok Thambalnu L. Banka Sharma H. Gehendra Liberty Films 35mm Black and White [18][19]
1987 ꯏꯆꯦ ꯁꯈꯤ Eche Shakhi Doren Thoudam & H. Ibotombi Doren Thoudam A.T.B. Films International (India) 16mm Converted to 35mm blowup Colour [18][19]
1989 ꯀꯣꯝꯕꯤꯔꯩ Kombirei G. Narayan Sharma G. Narayan Sharma N.S. Films 35mm Colour [18][19]

Cast and crew[edit | edit source]

This list is incomplete; you can help by adding missing items with reliable sources.

Actors[edit | edit source]

Actresses[edit | edit source]

Directors[edit | edit source]

Awards[edit | edit source]

National Film Awards[edit | edit source]

Main article: National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Meitei

Bilingualism[edit | edit source]

Many Meitei language films have been made with other languages simultaneously.

Meitei and English[edit | edit source]

This list is incomplete; you can help by adding missing items with reliable sources.
Year Title Director(s) Ref
2011 Fried Fish, Chicken Soup and a Premiere Show Mamta Murthy [20]
2013 Manipuri Pony (film) Aribam Syam Sharma
2018 Who Said Boys Can't Wear Makeup? Priyakanta Laishram [21]
2024 Oneness (film) Priyakanta Laishram [22]

Meitei and Japanese[edit | edit source]

Year Title Director(s) Ref
2015 My Japanese Niece Mohen Naorem [23][24][25]

Meitei and Portuguese[edit | edit source]

Year Meitei Title Portuguese Title Director(s) Ref
2017 Nura Pakhang Eu e Tu Romi Meitei [26]

Meitei and Tamil[edit | edit source]

Year Title Director(s) Ref
1996 Language of War R.V. Ramani [27]

Meitei and Tangkhul[edit | edit source]

Year Title Director(s) Ref
2021 Nine Hills One Valley Haobam Paban Kumar [28]

Notable films[edit | edit source]

Main article: List of Meitei-language films

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "'Mary Kom' earns Rs 28.32 cr at box office in first weekend". Business Today. 9 September 2014. Retrieved 31 July 2023. ... Meanwhile, producers are trying to release the film in Kom's hometown, where around 60 to 70 films in Meitei language are made in a year. ...
  2. ↑ Bag, Shamik (10 October 2015). "Being a movie buff in Imphal". mint. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  3. ↑ Bag, Shamik (10 October 2015). "Being a movie buff in Imphal". mint. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  4. ↑ "Matamgi Manipur on Moviebuff.com". Moviebuff.com. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  5. ↑ "Manipuri cinema in the last three decades". e-pao.net. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  6. ↑ "Now Showing MATAMGI MANIPUR". www.e-pao.net. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  7. ↑ "Digitised Imagi Ningthem screened at Pune film fest : 15th jan14 ~ E-Pao! Headlines". e-pao.net. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  8. ↑ "New book traces journey of Manipuri cinema". The Hindu. 6 April 2022. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  9. ↑ "Festival de Cannes: The Chosen One". festival-cannes.com. Retrieved 10 August 2009.
  10. ↑ "Manipuri feature film 'ISHANOU' recognised as World Classic". The Economic Times. 6 May 2023. ISSN 0013-0389. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  11. ↑ "Aribam Syam Sharma's ISHANOU recognised as World Classic". Imphal Free Press. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  12. ↑ "Manipuri Film 'Ishanou' Becomes India's Only Restored Film To Be Screened At Cannes 2023". Outlook India.
  13. ↑ Singh, Naorem Nishikanta (7 November 2013). "Bhumenjoy Konsam on the Chemistry of Making Keibu-Kei-Oiba – Part II | Manipur Times". Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  14. ↑ "Manipur fable from Shrek stable - Pune-based visual designer makes region's first animation film". www.telegraphindia.com. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  15. ↑ Singh, Naorem Nishikanta (22 October 2013). "Bhumenjoy Konsam on the Chemistry of Making Keibu-Kei-Oiba – Part I | Manipur Times". Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  16. ↑ Bag, Shamik (10 October 2015). "Being a movie buff in Imphal". mint. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  17. ↑ "Ishanou, Oneness, and Eikhoigi Yum become IMDb's top 3 Manipuri movies". East Mojo. 22 August 2023. Retrieved 23 August 2023.
  18. ↑ 18.00 18.01 18.02 18.03 18.04 18.05 18.06 18.07 18.08 18.09 18.10 18.11 18.12 18.13 18.14 "major film - E-rang Classic :: E-pao Movie Channel". e-pao.org. Retrieved 9 August 2023.
  19. ↑ 19.00 19.01 19.02 19.03 19.04 19.05 19.06 19.07 19.08 19.09 19.10 19.11 19.12 19.13 19.14 "Manipuri Feature Films 1972 1997 - E-rang Classic". Retrieved 9 August 2023.
  20. ↑ "Top film festival with unique selection process|Bandra Film Festival". www.bandrafilmfestival.com. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  21. ↑ "Manipuri-English film promoting gender-neutral fashion to be screened in Mumbai". 3 October 2023. Retrieved 7 October 2023.
  22. ↑ "A Manipur film tackles sexual identity for first time". The Indian Express. 25 April 2022. Retrieved 14 August 2023.
  23. ↑ "My Japanese Niece Movie Review (2015) - Rating, Cast & Crew With Synopsis". nettv4u. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  24. ↑ Times, Manipur (19 March 2013). ""My Japanese Niece" – a masterpiece from Mohen Naorem | Manipur Times". Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  25. ↑ "100 Thai soldiers to act in Manipuri film 'My Japanese Niece' : 19th mar13 ~ E-Pao! Headlines". e-pao.net. Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  26. ↑ "Clã gravam video no Porto com a cantora indiana Mangka". Força de Produção (in português). Retrieved 31 July 2023.
  27. ↑ "Films by R. V. Ramani". Retrieved 31 July 2023. LANGUAGE OF WAR 50 minutes, Tamil/Manipuri, 1996. Photographed, Edited, Directed and Produced by R.V.Ramani
  28. ↑ "Nine Hills, One Valley wins special mention award in NFDC's Film Bazaar Another feather in the cap for Paban Kumar". www.thesangaiexpress.com. Retrieved 31 July 2023.

External links[edit | edit source]

Template:World cinema

Retrieved from "https://en.bharatpedia.org/w/index.php?title=Meitei_cinema&oldid=449275"
Discover more