The Information and Public Relations Department, in association with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Film Association Nagaland (FAN) held its 4th Nagaland Film Festival at RCEMPA, Jotsoma, Kohima on 7th December 2023, with His Excellency, Javier Paulinich, Ambassador of Republic of Peru to India as the Special Guest.

The Ambassador thanked the Chief Minister for inviting him to be part of the Hornbill Festival and also the 4th Film Festival. A film enthusiast himself, the Ambassador said that making films is very important as films are an expression of our culture and it should be known everywhere. He also mentioned that there is a vast similarity between the Naga and Peruvian culture. The Ambassador informed that he will be sending some Peruvian movies to give insights on the culture and tradition of Peru.

            Advisor to CM and Chairman, IDAN, Abu Metha congratulated the Department and FAN for taking the Film Festival to its 4th edition. He said that Nagaland's pride and message to the world goes out through our culture and heritage. The film festival is a significant event because through films, art, creativity and through the imagination of people it brings the world to Nagaland. He further added that it brings creative ideas and storytelling to our own backyard and provides access to our youths to witness world class cinemas. He hoped for the Nagaland Film industry to grow and upscale in order to tell our stories to the world. He asked the Naga film makers and the youth to take their imagination and tell the stories of the Naga people to the rest of the world.

            Director, DIPR, Dzuvinuo Theunuo hoped that the two days of the film festival will be an eye opener for film enthusiasts and provide an avenue for filmmakers to express their creativity and explore different themes and genres. She hoped that the workshops, master classes, and panel discussions will offer valuable insights into the craft of filmmaking. She also said that Film festivals often feature a diverse range of films from different countries and cultures, which allows people to experience and appreciate cinema from various backgrounds, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.

The opening film that was aired was 'Nocturnal Burger' by Director Reema Maya. Six films were aired on the first day of the film festival and the Festival will conclude on the 8th December 2023.

                                                                                                (Takumpula, IA and Esui IA)