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{{short description|Indian actress}}
{{short description|Indian actress from Manipur}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2024}}
{{Use Indian English|date=April 2023}}
{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
| image       =  
| name              = Maya Choudhury
| caption     =  
| image             = Maya Choudhury.jpg
| birth_date = 3 March
| caption           = Maya Choudhury in 2020
| birth_place = Brahmapur Thangapat Mapal, [[Imphal]], [[Manipur]]<br/>'''Present address:'''<br/>Palace Compound, [[Imphal]], [[Manipur]]
| birth_date         =  
| occupation = Actress
| birth_place       = [[Imphal]], [[Manipur]]<br/>'''Present address:'''<br/>Palace Compound, [[Imphal]], [[Manipur]]
| years_active = 1997-present
| occupation         = Actress
| spouse     = Laishram Manikanta
| years_active       = 1997-present
| parents     = Ch. Somorjit Sharma<br/>Ch. Ongbi Sanahanbi Devi
| spouse             = Laishram Manikanta
| nationality = [[India]]n
| parents           = Ch. Somorjit Sharma<br/>Ch. Ongbi Sanahanbi Devi
| website     =  
| website           =  
}}
}}
'''Maya Choudhury''' is an Indian actress who appears in [[Manipuri film]]s.<ref name=":3">{{Cite news |date=19 August 2023 |title="For The First Time, This Film Stirs Up The Deepest Feelings In My Heart" - Maya Choudhury About Working In 'Oneness' |url=https://dailyasianage.com/news/311008/for-the-first-time-this-film-stirs-up-the-deepest-feelings-in-my-heart---maya-choudhury-about-working-in-oneness |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=The Asian Age}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite news |date=15 February 2025 |title=Manipuri Film ‘Oneness’ Earns Four Nominations at Prag Cine Awards Northeast 2025 |url=https://www.imphaltimes.com/news/manipuri-film-oneness-earns-four-nominations-at-prag-cine-awards-northeast-2025/ |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=Imphal Times}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite news |date=29 April 2018 |title=Maya Choudhury |work=The Personage |url=https://nikitalsharma.wordpress.com/2018/04/29/maya-choudhury/ |access-date=17 August 2023}}</ref> For her performance as Anna Martin in the 2024 film ''[[Oneness (film)|Oneness]]'', she received the Best Supporting Actor (Female) award at the 17th [[Government of Manipur|Manipur State Film Awards]] in 2025, marking the first award of her career.<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-06-27 |title=Manipur's Queer Film ONENESS Wins 2 State Govt. Film Awards - Northeast Today |url=https://northeasttoday.in/northeast/manipurs-queer-film-oneness-wins-2-state-govt-film-awards/ |access-date=2025-06-27 |website=Northeast Today |language=en-US}}</ref>


'''Maya Choudhury''' (born 3 March) is an Indian actress who appears in [[Manipuri film]]s.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://e-pao.org/erang/Actress/Maya.php|title=Maya - E-rang :: E-pao Movie Channel|website=e-pao.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://e-pao.org/erang/Gallery/Photo_gallery_maya.php|title=Maya Choudhury - Photo Gallery :: E-rang|website=e-pao.org}}</ref> Some of her famous films are ''Basantagee Nongallamdai'' trilogy, ''Momon Meenok'', ''21st Century's Kunti'', ''Nungshibee Takhellei'' and ''[[Tomthin Shija]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://nikitalsharma.wordpress.com/2018/04/29/maya-choudhury/|title=Maya Choudhury|first=The|last=Personage|date=April 29, 2018}}</ref> In 2019 movie ''[[Pandam Amada]]'', she was casted as the main protagonist's mother. The film was selected for 18th International Dhaka Film Festival 2019, 18th Third Eye Asian Film Festival 2019, Mumbai and Tokyo Lift-Off Film Festival 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thenewsmill.com/manipuri-film-pandan-selected-for-asian-festival/|title=Manipuri film Pandam Amada selected for Asian Festival|website=The News Mill|date=12 December 2019|access-date=15 April 2020}}</ref>
Some of her notable films are ''Basantagee Nongallamdai'' trilogy, [[Oneness (film)|''Oneness,'']] ''Meichak'', ''Kunti'', ''Mr. Lakhipyari'', ''Liklaai'', ''[[Tomthin Shija]]'', [[Imoinu (film)|''Imoinu'']] and ''Saklon Amada''.<ref>{{Cite news |date=10 December 2021 |title=Priyakanta Laishram "ONENESS" is all set to reveal the invisible crime of Gay Honor Killing (Manipur's first Gay themed movie) |work=India Today NE |url=https://www.indiatodayne.in/breaking-news/story/priyakanta-laishram-oneness-all-set-reveal-invisible-crime-gay-honor-killing-manipurs-first-gay-themed-movie-411189-2021-12-10 |access-date=10 May 2023}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite news |date=23 April 2023 |title=Making Of 'ONENESS': Manipur's First-Ever Flick On Same-Sex Relationship |work=The Frontier Manipur |url=https://thefrontiermanipur.com/making-of-oneness-manipurs-first-ever-flick-on-same-sex-relationship/ |access-date=10 May 2023}}</ref>


==Career==
==Career==
''Maya Choudhury'' first appeared on screen in the 1998 Manipuri celluloid film ''Meichak''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://e-pao.org/erang/Actress/Maya.php?iframe=true&width=80%25&height=80%25|title=Actress: Maya Choudhury - E-rang :: E-pao Movie Channel|website=e-pao.org}}</ref> She won the ''Miss Manipur 2nd Runners' Up'' title along with five subtitles in 1998.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=education.Jobs_Career.The_Beauty_Business_Craze_Hunger_Part_1_By_Sundari_Yumnam|title=The Beauty Business - Craze, Hunger|author=Sundari Yumnam|website=e-pao.net}}</ref> Before she got married, she did three films. After marriage, she is supported by her husband and family to continue acting. Her role as Sarla in the 2006 film ''Basantagee Nongallamdai'' garnered positive response from the audience and made her more popular. With her husband Manikanta as producer, she had also directed a movie titled ''Mang-Ngal''.
In 1998, Maya Choudhury made her acting debut in the celluloid film ''Meichak,'' directed by Laimayum Banka Sharma. Later that year, she participated in [[Miss Manipur]] 1998, where she was placed ''2nd runner-up'', winning 5 other subtitles. It was then followed by two other celluloid films before she got married.<ref name=":1" />


Some popular films of her include ''Basantagee Nongallamdai'' trilogy, ''Liklaai'', ''Imphal Ningol'', ''21st Century's Kunti'', ''Saklon Amada'', ''Leikang Thambal'' and ''Momon Meenok''. In the film ''Meiree Natte Liklani'', Choudhury played an antagonistic role. She took a break from acting for 1–2 years from the year 2012.
She made her comeback to acting after marriage with films like ''Basantagee Nongallamdai'' and ''21st Century's Kunti'', for which she credited her husband and family for their support.<ref name=":1" />


Her comeback in the Manipuri film industry is marked with films like ''[[Leikhamton]]'', ''[[Imoinu]]'' and ''Shajik Thaba''. Other films of her released in 2017-18 include ''[[Tomthin Shija]] '' and ''Hiyai''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/manipuri-film-hiyai-screened-at-dus-north-campus/articleshow/66028925.cms|title=Manipuri film Hiyai screened at DU's north campus|newspaper=Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://allevents.in/north+delhi/tomthin-shija-movie-screening-delhi/1500030023423131|title=Tomthin Shija Movie Screening Delhi|website=Allevents.in}}</ref>
Maya's comeback in the industry is marked by ''[[Leikhamton]]'' and supporting roles in films like ''[[Imoinu (film)|Imoinu]], [[Tomthin Shija]], Hiyai'',<ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/manipuri-film-hiyai-screened-at-dus-north-campus/articleshow/66028925.cms |title=Manipuri film Hiyai screened at DU's north campus |newspaper=The Times of India}}</ref> and ''[[Pandam Amada]]'', while the latter was selected for the 18th Dhaka International Film Festival 2019, the 18th Third Eye Asian Film Festival 2019, Mumbai and the Tokyo Lift-Off Film Festival 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://thenewsmill.com/manipuri-film-pandan-selected-for-asian-festival/ |title=Manipuri film Pandam Amada selected for Asian Festival |website=The News Mill |date=12 December 2019 |access-date=15 April 2020}}</ref>
 
=== Notable Critical Response ===
In 2024, Maya Choudhury appeared as a protagonist playing the role of Anna Martin in the film ''[[Oneness (film)|Oneness]]'', directed by [[Priyakanta Laishram]], which is the first Manipuri film to explore same-sex relationships.<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite news |last=Roy |first=Esha |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=1 April 2023}}</ref><ref name=":5">{{Cite news |date=17 August 2024 |title=Oneness to premiere at Bangalore Queer Film Fest |url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2024/8/17/IMPHAL-Aug-17-Manipuri-Film-Oneness-has-been-selected-as-the-sole-entry-from-North-East-India-for-the-pre.html |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=The Sangai Express}}</ref> The film made its world premiere at South Asia's biggest queer film festival, [[KASHISH Pride Film Festival|KASHISH Pride Film Festival 2024]], [[Mumbai]]<ref>{{Cite news |date=21 May 2024 |title=Priyakanta's 'Oneness' steals spotlight at Pride Film Fest |url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2024/5/21/By-Our-Staff-ReporterIMPHAL-May-20-Manipuri-filmmaker-and-actor-Priyakanta-Laishram-has-taken-the-Kashish.html |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=The Sangai Express}}</ref> and later got official selections and screened at the [[Bangalore Queer Film Festival|14th Bangalore Queer Film Festival 2024]],<ref name=":5" /> the [[2nd Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival|2nd Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival 2025]],<ref>{{Cite news |date=31 January 2025 |title=State gears up for 2nd EIIFF |url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2025/1/31/IMPHAL-Jan-30-Manipur-is-gearing-up-to-host-the-second-edition-of-the-Eikhoigi-Imphal-International-Film-Fe.html |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=The Sangai Express}}</ref> and the 2nd North East India Film Festival, Manipur.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1 February 2025 |title=Three Assamese Films Selected For Screening At 2nd North East India Film Festival In Manipur |url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/north-east-india-news/assam-news/three-assamese-films-selected-for-screening-at-2nd-north-east-india-film-festival-in-manipur |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=The Sentinel}}</ref> The film also got recommendations from [[Elle (magazine)|Elle Magazine]] and [[Mid-Day]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=15 May 2024 |title=From Kaathal to La Vénus d'Argent, Here Are 8 Films To Watch Out For At The Kashish Pride Film Festival This Year |url=https://elle.in/8-films-kashish-pride-film-festival/ |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=ELLE}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=13 May 2024 |title=10 feature films to watch out for at KASHISH Pride Film Festival 2024 |url=https://www.mid-day.com/lifestyle/culture/photo/in-photos-10-feature-films-to-watch-out-for-at-kashish-pride-film-festival-2024-in-mumbai-lgbtqia-queer-festival-100613/1 |access-date=13 March 2025}}</ref>
 
Upon release, Maya got critical acclaim for her performance as Anna Martin. ''[[The Sangai Express]]'' praised her performance, writing that she "delivers one of her most powerful performances in ONENESS."<ref>{{Cite news |date=9 August 2024 |title=ONENESS: A landmark in Manipuri cinema breaks barriers |url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2024/8/9/Reviewed-by-Laishram-Malemnganba-Meitei-Mocha-Laishram-Khuman-ABOUT-THE-FILM-ONENESS-directed-by-Pr.html |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=The Sangai Express}}</ref> ''Manipur Wiki'' penned, "Maya Choudhury shines as another stand out star of the film, delivering outstanding performances throughout." and stating that, "This performance is arguably the best of her career."<ref>{{Cite news |date=17 December 2024 |title=“Oneness” : A Film Review |url=https://manipurwiki.org/oneness-a-film-review/ |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=Manipur Wiki}}</ref> ''E-Pao'' praised her performance, writing, "Maya's portrayal is both subtle and impactful, capturing the essence of a mother's love and resilience."<ref name=":8">{{Cite news |date=20 December 2024 |title=Oneness - A Brave, Pioneering Triumph in Manipuri Cinema |url=https://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=reviews.movies.Oneness_A_Brave_Pioneering_Triumph_in_Manipuri_Cinema_By_David_Whiso |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=E-Pao}}</ref> ''Imphal Review of Arts and Politics'' described it as “perhaps the finest performance of her illustrious career”, praising her emotionally nuanced portrayal of a conflicted mother, considering her role as one of the strongest elements of the film, contributing significantly to its impact.<ref name=":9">{{Cite news |date=10 May 2025 |title=“Oneness”: A Defiant Cinematic Stand Against Deep-Rooted Socio-Cultural Intolerance |url=https://imphalreviews.in/oneness-a-defiant-cinematic-stand-against-deep-rooted-socio-cultural-intolerance/ |access-date=14 June 2025 |work=Imphal Review of Arts and Politics}}</ref> ''Signpost News'' highlighted Maya Choudhury’s role as a key emotional anchor in ''Oneness'', noting her “transformative arc” as one of the film’s most impactful elements.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Angom |first=Rinku |date=26 June 2025 |title=Oneness: The Film That Dared to Say What Manipur Silenced |url=https://signpostnews.com/oneness-the-film-that-dared-to-say-what-manipur-silenced/ |access-date=27 June 2025 |work=Signpost News}}</ref>
 
She received her first [[Northeast India|pan-Northeast India]] nomination for Best Actress ''- Northeast'' at the [[Prag Cine Awards|Prag Cine Awards 2025]] for her performance in the film.<ref name=":4" /> Her performance as Anna Martin in [[Oneness (film)|''Oneness'']] was recognized by ''Screen Echoes Manipur'' as one of the Best 8 Performances in Manipuri Cinema in the Last Decade.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Manipur |first=Screen Echoes |date=21 June 2025 |title=Best 8 Performances In Manipuri Cinema In The Last Decade |url=https://e-pao.net/epSubPageExtractor.asp?src=reviews.movies.Best_8_Performances_in_Manipuri_Cinema_in_the_last_Decade |access-date=23 June 2025 |work=E-Pao}}</ref>
 
At the 17th Manipur State Film Awards in 2025, she received the Best Supporting Actor (Female) award for ''Oneness''. Presented by the [[Government of Manipur]] and the Manipur State Film Development Society, the award marked the first recognition in her 28-year-long acting career.<ref name=":10" />
 
== Accolades ==
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+
!Award
!Category
!Film
!Result
!Ref.
|-
| 17th Manipur State Film Awards 2025
| Best Supporting Actor (Female)
| ''[[Oneness (film)|Oneness]]''
|{{won}}
|<ref name=":10" />
|-
| [[Prag Cine Awards|Prag Cine Awards 2025]]
| Best Actress - ''Northeast''
| ''[[Oneness (film)|Oneness]]''
| {{nominated}}
|  <ref name=":4" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=10 March 2025 |title=Priyakanta Laishram wins Best Director Northeast at Prag Cine Awards 2025 for ONENESS |url=https://www.imphaltimes.com/news/priyakanta-laishram-wins-best-director-northeast-at-prag-cine-awards-2025-for-oneness/ |access-date=13 March 2025 |work=Imphal Times}}</ref>
|-
| 1st SSS MANIFA 2012
| Best Actress
| ''Saklon Amada''
| {{nominated}}
| <ref>{{Cite web|url=http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=23..130912.sep12|title=Nominees of Manipuri Film awards announced|website=e-pao.net}}</ref>
|}
 
== Controversy ==
In 2024, Maya Choudhury became the subject of online criticism and trolling following a promotional interview for the film ''[[Oneness (film)|Oneness]]''. During the interview, she remarked she does not watch films in which she does not star, a statement that was misinterpreted and contributed to heightened backlash against the film. The controversy occurred amidst broader resistance to the film’s subject matter in [[Manipur]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hijam |first=Araba |date=13 March 2025 |title=Why Priyakanta Laishram's Best Director Win Feels Like Our Own Victory |url=https://www.thesangaiexpress.com/Encyc/2025/3/13/Araba-Hijam-Some-victories-extend-beyond-personal-achievement-they-symbolize-defiance-resilience-and-the-c.html |access-date=14 June 2025 |work=The Sangai Express}}</ref><ref name=":8" /><ref name=":9" />


==Selected filmography==
==Selected filmography==
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|-
|-
|1999
|1999
|''Aroiba Bidai''
|''Aroiba Bidaai''
|Thadoi
|Thadoi
|[[Oken Amakcham]]
|[[Oken Amakcham]]
|-
|-
|2003
|rowspan="2"|2004
|''Thajabagee Wangmada''
|Sarju
|[[Oken Amakcham]]
|-
|''Panthungeedara Nungshiba''
|''Panthungeedara Nungshiba''
|Asha
|Asha
|Diya Khwairakpam
|Diya Khwairakpam
|-
|2004
|''Thajabagee Wangmada''
|Sarju
|[[Oken Amakcham]]
|-
|-
| rowspan="2"|2005
| rowspan="2"|2005
Line 57: Line 99:
|''Mr. Lakhipyari''
|''Mr. Lakhipyari''
|Radha
|Radha
|Homen D' Wai
|[[Homen D' Wai]]
|-
|-
|rowspan="2"|2006
|rowspan="2"|2006
Line 68: Line 110:
|Tej Kshetri
|Tej Kshetri
|-
|-
|2008
|2007
|''Ujaningba Shaktam''
|Sarla
|Tej Kshetri
|-
|rowspan="4"|2008
|''Chatlabra Waarouna?''
|Thaja
|[[Khwairakpam Bishwamittra]]
|-
|''Liklaai''
|''Liklaai''
|Liklaai
|Liklaai
|Pilu H.
|Pilu H.
|-
|-
| rowspan="2"|2009
|''Ningthem''
|Panthoi
|[[Khwairakpam Bishwamittra]]
|-
|''Lanmei Thanbi''
|Dr. Memi
|Chou En Lai & O. Mangi
|-
| rowspan="3"|2009
|''Lonthoktabagee Wari''
|''Lonthoktabagee Wari''
|Leihao
|Leihao
|Diya Khwairakpam
|Diya Khwairakpam
|-
|''Leikang Thambal''
|Thambal
|Tej Kshetri
|-
|-
|''Utaangbi''
|''Utaangbi''
Line 82: Line 145:
|[[Romi Meitei]]
|[[Romi Meitei]]
|-
|-
| rowspan="9"|2010
| rowspan="11"|2010
|''Imphal Ningol''
|''Imphal Ningol''
|Leibaklei
|Leibaklei
|Bijgupta Laishram
|Bijgupta Laishram
|-
|''Piranglakta Manglan Ama''
|Dr. Chongnu
|Khangembam Kuleswar
|-
|-
|''Lambidudei''
|''Lambidudei''
Line 96: Line 163:
|-
|-
|''Saklon Amada''
|''Saklon Amada''
|Ningthem's love interest
|Memthoi
|L. Surjakanta
|L. Surjakanta
|-
|-
Line 118: Line 185:
|Linthoi
|Linthoi
|Amar Raj
|Amar Raj
|-
|''Torban Amagi Wari''
|Phajabi
|Niladhwaja Khuman
|-
|-
| rowspan="3"|2011
| rowspan="3"|2011
Line 138: Line 209:
|-
|-
| rowspan="2"|2015
| rowspan="2"|2015
|''[[Imoinu]]''
|''[[Imoinu (film)|Imoinu]]''
|Leimarembi
|Leimarembi
|Bijgputa Laishram
|Bijgputa Laishram
Line 158: Line 229:
|2019
|2019
|''[[Pandam Amada]]''
|''[[Pandam Amada]]''
|Malem's mother
|Yaiphabi
|[[Oinam Gautam Singh|O. Gautam]]
|[[Oinam Gautam Singh|O. Gautam]]
|-
|-
|2020
|2020
|''[[Aronba Wari]]''
|''[[Aronba Wari]]''
|
|Yaiphabi's mother
|OC Meira
|OC Meira
|-
| rowspan="2" |2022
|''Imoinu 2''
|Leimarembi
|Bijgupta Laishram
|-
|''Laija Lembi''
|Tampha
|Sudhir Kangjam
|-
|rowspan="2"|2024
|''[[Oneness (film)|Oneness]]''
|Anna Martin
|[[Priyakanta Laishram]]
|-
|''Khomlang Laman''
|Chinglen's mother
|OC Meira
|-
|Upcoming
|''Laija Lembi 2''
|Tampha
|Sudhir Kangjam
|}
|}


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==External links==
==External links==
* {{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01ekmzmrksg|title=MAYA CHOUDHURY On Manung Hutna 14 July 2018|via=YouTube}}
* {{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01ekmzmrksg |title=MAYA CHOUDHURY On Manung Hutna 14 July 2018 |via=YouTube}}
* {{cite web|url=https://youtube.com/watch?v=9bDXpvcju-Q|title=Coffee with TOM - Maya Choudhury: Episode 150 (Anchor: Jolly)|via=YouTube}}
* {{cite web |url=https://youtube.com/watch?v=9bDXpvcju-Q |title=Coffee with TOM - Maya Choudhury: Episode 150 (Anchor: Jolly) |via=YouTube}}


{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Choudhury, Maya}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Choudhury, Maya}}
[[Category:Indian film actresses]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Meitei people]]
[[Category:Meitei people]]
[[Category:People from Imphal]]
[[Category:People from Imphal]]
[[Category:Indian film actresses]]
[[Category:Actresses from Manipur]]
[[Category:Actresses from Manipur]]
[[Category:Actresses in Meitei cinema]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian actresses]]
[[Category:21st-century Indian actresses]]
[[Category:Year of birth missing (living people)]]
[[Category:Year of birth missing (living people)]]

Latest revision as of 14:06, 19 March 2026


Maya Choudhury
Maya Choudhury in 2020
Born
Imphal, Manipur
Present address:
Palace Compound, Imphal, Manipur
OccupationActress
Years active1997-present
Spouse(s)Laishram Manikanta
Parent(s)Ch. Somorjit Sharma
Ch. Ongbi Sanahanbi Devi

Maya Choudhury is an Indian actress who appears in Manipuri films.[1][2][3] For her performance as Anna Martin in the 2024 film Oneness, she received the Best Supporting Actor (Female) award at the 17th Manipur State Film Awards in 2025, marking the first award of her career.[4]

Some of her notable films are Basantagee Nongallamdai trilogy, Oneness, Meichak, Kunti, Mr. Lakhipyari, Liklaai, Tomthin Shija, Imoinu and Saklon Amada.[5][6]

Career[edit | edit source]

In 1998, Maya Choudhury made her acting debut in the celluloid film Meichak, directed by Laimayum Banka Sharma. Later that year, she participated in Miss Manipur 1998, where she was placed 2nd runner-up, winning 5 other subtitles. It was then followed by two other celluloid films before she got married.[3]

She made her comeback to acting after marriage with films like Basantagee Nongallamdai and 21st Century's Kunti, for which she credited her husband and family for their support.[3]

Maya's comeback in the industry is marked by Leikhamton and supporting roles in films like Imoinu, Tomthin Shija, Hiyai,[7] and Pandam Amada, while the latter was selected for the 18th Dhaka International Film Festival 2019, the 18th Third Eye Asian Film Festival 2019, Mumbai and the Tokyo Lift-Off Film Festival 2020.[8]

Notable Critical Response[edit | edit source]

In 2024, Maya Choudhury appeared as a protagonist playing the role of Anna Martin in the film Oneness, directed by Priyakanta Laishram, which is the first Manipuri film to explore same-sex relationships.[6][9][10] The film made its world premiere at South Asia's biggest queer film festival, KASHISH Pride Film Festival 2024, Mumbai[11] and later got official selections and screened at the 14th Bangalore Queer Film Festival 2024,[10] the 2nd Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival 2025,[12] and the 2nd North East India Film Festival, Manipur.[13] The film also got recommendations from Elle Magazine and Mid-Day.[14][15]

Upon release, Maya got critical acclaim for her performance as Anna Martin. The Sangai Express praised her performance, writing that she "delivers one of her most powerful performances in ONENESS."[16] Manipur Wiki penned, "Maya Choudhury shines as another stand out star of the film, delivering outstanding performances throughout." and stating that, "This performance is arguably the best of her career."[17] E-Pao praised her performance, writing, "Maya's portrayal is both subtle and impactful, capturing the essence of a mother's love and resilience."[18] Imphal Review of Arts and Politics described it as “perhaps the finest performance of her illustrious career”, praising her emotionally nuanced portrayal of a conflicted mother, considering her role as one of the strongest elements of the film, contributing significantly to its impact.[19] Signpost News highlighted Maya Choudhury’s role as a key emotional anchor in Oneness, noting her “transformative arc” as one of the film’s most impactful elements.[20]

She received her first pan-Northeast India nomination for Best Actress - Northeast at the Prag Cine Awards 2025 for her performance in the film.[2] Her performance as Anna Martin in Oneness was recognized by Screen Echoes Manipur as one of the Best 8 Performances in Manipuri Cinema in the Last Decade.[21]

At the 17th Manipur State Film Awards in 2025, she received the Best Supporting Actor (Female) award for Oneness. Presented by the Government of Manipur and the Manipur State Film Development Society, the award marked the first recognition in her 28-year-long acting career.[4]

Accolades[edit | edit source]

Award Category Film Result Ref.
17th Manipur State Film Awards 2025 Best Supporting Actor (Female) Oneness Won [4]
Prag Cine Awards 2025 Best Actress - Northeast Oneness Nominated [2][22]
1st SSS MANIFA 2012 Best Actress Saklon Amada Nominated [23]

Controversy[edit | edit source]

In 2024, Maya Choudhury became the subject of online criticism and trolling following a promotional interview for the film Oneness. During the interview, she remarked she does not watch films in which she does not star, a statement that was misinterpreted and contributed to heightened backlash against the film. The controversy occurred amidst broader resistance to the film’s subject matter in Manipur.[24][18][19]

Selected filmography[edit | edit source]

Year Film Role Director
1998 Meichak Lata L. Banka Sharma
1999 Aroiba Bidaai Thadoi Oken Amakcham
2004 Thajabagee Wangmada Sarju Oken Amakcham
Panthungeedara Nungshiba Asha Diya Khwairakpam
2005 Nangtana Helli Monika Oken Amakcham
Mr. Lakhipyari Radha Homen D' Wai
2006 Eigi Salini Ma'am Salini Thapa Vir Bhadra Yumnam
Basantagee Nongallamdai Sarla Tej Kshetri
2007 Ujaningba Shaktam Sarla Tej Kshetri
2008 Chatlabra Waarouna? Thaja Khwairakpam Bishwamittra
Liklaai Liklaai Pilu H.
Ningthem Panthoi Khwairakpam Bishwamittra
Lanmei Thanbi Dr. Memi Chou En Lai & O. Mangi
2009 Lonthoktabagee Wari Leihao Diya Khwairakpam
Leikang Thambal Thambal Tej Kshetri
Utaangbi Radha Romi Meitei
2010 Imphal Ningol Leibaklei Bijgupta Laishram
Piranglakta Manglan Ama Dr. Chongnu Khangembam Kuleswar
Lambidudei Dr. Linthoi K. Bimal Sharma
Kanadano Lingjel's sister I.S. Gurung
Saklon Amada Memthoi L. Surjakanta
Meiree Natte Liklani Lanjenbi Amar Raj
Ahing Mamei Leima Bimol Phibou
Oooh...! The Great - Thawangee Purnima Purnima L. Prakash
21st Century's Kunti Rajlakshmi Joy Soram
Nungshibee Takhellei Linthoi Amar Raj
Torban Amagi Wari Phajabi Niladhwaja Khuman
2011 Mellei Leishna Thariktha Leishna Amar Raj
Momon Meenok Thariktha Ksh. Kishorekumar
Fried Fish, Chicken Soup and a Premiere Show Herself Mamta Murthy
2014 Leikhamton Leikham Tej Kshetri
2015 Imoinu Leimarembi Bijgputa Laishram
Shajik Thaba Sanarembi's mother Ojitbabu Ningthoujam
2017 Tomthin Shija Dr. Ayingbi Shija Bobby Haobam
2018 Hiyai Leima Herojit Naoroibam
2019 Pandam Amada Yaiphabi O. Gautam
2020 Aronba Wari Yaiphabi's mother OC Meira
2022 Imoinu 2 Leimarembi Bijgupta Laishram
Laija Lembi Tampha Sudhir Kangjam
2024 Oneness Anna Martin Priyakanta Laishram
Khomlang Laman Chinglen's mother OC Meira
Upcoming Laija Lembi 2 Tampha Sudhir Kangjam

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ ""For The First Time, This Film Stirs Up The Deepest Feelings In My Heart" - Maya Choudhury About Working In 'Oneness'". The Asian Age. 19 August 2023. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 "Manipuri Film 'Oneness' Earns Four Nominations at Prag Cine Awards Northeast 2025". Imphal Times. 15 February 2025. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Maya Choudhury". The Personage. 29 April 2018. Retrieved 17 August 2023.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 "Manipur's Queer Film ONENESS Wins 2 State Govt. Film Awards - Northeast Today". Northeast Today. 27 June 2025. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
  5. ↑ "Priyakanta Laishram "ONENESS" is all set to reveal the invisible crime of Gay Honor Killing (Manipur's first Gay themed movie)". India Today NE. 10 December 2021. Retrieved 10 May 2023.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 "Making Of 'ONENESS': Manipur's First-Ever Flick On Same-Sex Relationship". The Frontier Manipur. 23 April 2023. Retrieved 10 May 2023.
  7. ↑ "Manipuri film Hiyai screened at DU's north campus". The Times of India.
  8. ↑ "Manipuri film Pandam Amada selected for Asian Festival". The News Mill. 12 December 2019. Retrieved 15 April 2020.
  9. ↑ Roy, Esha (25 April 2022). "A Manipur film tackles sexual identity for first time". The Indian Express. Retrieved 1 April 2023.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 "Oneness to premiere at Bangalore Queer Film Fest". The Sangai Express. 17 August 2024. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  11. ↑ "Priyakanta's 'Oneness' steals spotlight at Pride Film Fest". The Sangai Express. 21 May 2024. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  12. ↑ "State gears up for 2nd EIIFF". The Sangai Express. 31 January 2025. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  13. ↑ "Three Assamese Films Selected For Screening At 2nd North East India Film Festival In Manipur". The Sentinel. 1 February 2025. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  14. ↑ "From Kaathal to La Vénus d'Argent, Here Are 8 Films To Watch Out For At The Kashish Pride Film Festival This Year". ELLE. 15 May 2024. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  15. ↑ "10 feature films to watch out for at KASHISH Pride Film Festival 2024". 13 May 2024. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  16. ↑ "ONENESS: A landmark in Manipuri cinema breaks barriers". The Sangai Express. 9 August 2024. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  17. ↑ ""Oneness" : A Film Review". Manipur Wiki. 17 December 2024. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 "Oneness - A Brave, Pioneering Triumph in Manipuri Cinema". E-Pao. 20 December 2024. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  19. ↑ 19.0 19.1 ""Oneness": A Defiant Cinematic Stand Against Deep-Rooted Socio-Cultural Intolerance". Imphal Review of Arts and Politics. 10 May 2025. Retrieved 14 June 2025.
  20. ↑ Angom, Rinku (26 June 2025). "Oneness: The Film That Dared to Say What Manipur Silenced". Signpost News. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
  21. ↑ Manipur, Screen Echoes (21 June 2025). "Best 8 Performances In Manipuri Cinema In The Last Decade". E-Pao. Retrieved 23 June 2025.
  22. ↑ "Priyakanta Laishram wins Best Director Northeast at Prag Cine Awards 2025 for ONENESS". Imphal Times. 10 March 2025. Retrieved 13 March 2025.
  23. ↑ "Nominees of Manipuri Film awards announced". e-pao.net.
  24. ↑ Hijam, Araba (13 March 2025). "Why Priyakanta Laishram's Best Director Win Feels Like Our Own Victory". The Sangai Express. Retrieved 14 June 2025.

External links[edit | edit source]

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