The Tribal Research Institute (TRI), Government of Manipur, has announced the launch of the inaugural “Tribal Frames Manipur: National Tribal Film Festival”, scheduled to take place from November 8 to 11, 2025 in Imphal. The festival is being organised in collaboration with the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, as part of the nationwide celebration of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh.
Described as a non-competitive festival, the initiative aims to provide a platform for filmmakers, animators, and storytellers working on tribal themes, showcasing the voices, stories, and visions of tribal communities across India. Films in any tribal language are eligible for submission, provided they include English subtitles.
Eligibility is restricted to films released after January 1, 2020, and includes both short and feature-length formats. The festival welcomes a wide range of genres, including documentaries, fiction, and animation, reflecting its commitment to promoting diverse storytelling.
Filmmakers interested in participating must submit digital screening links or files, along with details such as title, synopsis, bio, year of production, duration, language, and contact information. The submission deadline is October 20, 2025, and selected participants will be notified by October 25, 2025. Organizers have confirmed that travel and hospitality expenses will be covered for chosen filmmakers.
Officials described the festival as a major step to foster dialogue, cultural exchange, and learning through cinema, while highlighting tribal perspectives in India’s contemporary media landscape. The festival is expected to draw filmmakers, scholars, and audiences from across the country, strengthening Manipur’s role as a hub for tribal arts and storytelling.