The Entertainment Society of Mizoram (ESM), in association with the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) and with support from the North Eastern Council (NEC), has launched Film-Fest 2026, a two-day festival dedicated to short and documentary films.
The festival began on Thursday at the I&PR Mini-Theatre in Lianchhiari Run. Information, Public Relations, Printing & Stationery Secretary Betsy Zothanpari Sailo formally inaugurated the event.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Sailo said cinema had a role far beyond entertainment. According to her, the film sector could create employment while also serving as an effective platform for preserving and presenting the cultural identity of communities.
She encouraged aspiring filmmakers, particularly young people, to explore short and documentary filmmaking more actively. Sailo also welcomed the ESM initiative to bring greater attention to these formats through the festival.
Emphasising Mizoram’s creative potential, she said the state itself offers a wealth of stories, traditions, experiences and subjects that can attract audiences outside the region. She urged local filmmakers to draw inspiration from Mizoram’s own cultural and social landscape.
Sailo also referred to the Lemchan Film Festival, organised by the I&PR Directorate in March, as another initiative aimed at strengthening the state’s filmmaking ecosystem. She said film festivals offer filmmakers opportunities to present their work, interact with fellow creators and improve their skills.
ESM chairman B. Lallawmkima thanked the participants and acknowledged the contribution of the I&PR Directorate in organising the festival. While noting the progress already made by the Mizo film industry, he said further development would require continued cooperation among filmmakers and other stakeholders.
Film-Fest 2026 is being held on August 13 and 14. The programme includes master classes conducted by experienced film professionals, along with public screenings of selected Mizo films.
