Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, Sept 24:
Meiphung Productions, a beacon of cultural and cinematic innovation in Ukhrul, celebrated its 10th anniversary with great fanfare at the Tangkhul Baptist Gospel (TBG) Hall, TBCS Mission Compound, Alungtang, Ukhrul on Monday. The event brought together a vibrant mix of local artists, dignitaries, and well-wishers to commemorate a decade of storytelling that reflects the ethos of the Tangkhul community.
A Journey of Endurance and Vision:
Eno. Ramnganing Ruivah, CEO of Meiphung Productions, took the audience on a nostalgic journey, recounting the birth and evolution of the production house. He revealed that the inspiration for Meiphung Productions came during an encounter with Ava Kharar (Ato Kilonser) in Delhi a decade ago. Kharar’s words about the strength of a nation being defined by diverse disciplines—such as sports, music, and movies—struck a chord with Ruivah.
With a strong Christian faith and a desire to inspire the younger generation through moral storytelling, Ruivah saw films as a potent medium to convey values deeply rooted in Tangkhul culture. “Our films are more than entertainment,” he said. “They are tools to inspire and leave a lasting impact on the cultural ethos of the next generation.” Today, Meiphung Productions stands tall as a multi-award-winning entity, having claimed prestigious titles such as State Best Movie in Art Direction and Best Tangkhul Film for ‘Zingthanwo’.
Words of Wisdom from Ukhrul MLA Qr. Ram Muivah:
The celebration saw a significant presence of Ukhrul’s political figures, with Ukhrul MLA Qr. Ram Muivah attending as a special invitee. In his speech, Muivah stressed the importance of films in reflecting the true essence of the Tangkhul national character. He praised the community for its long-standing values of hospitality, selfless service, and generosity, urging filmmakers to capture these virtues on screen.
He remarked, “Films are an incredibly powerful medium, a soft power that can shape perceptions. Just as Hollywood influences the world today, we too can showcase our authentic culture and traditions through Tangkhul cinema. Our heritage is rich, and filmmakers must be careful not to adopt Western influences at the cost of losing our identity.”
Muivah reminisced about his childhood, spent watching local films, and emphasized the potential of Tangkhul epics like Kareiphy and Longyao, stories that he believes can stand alongside the great legends of Greece. He also referred to Machap Alu Leikashiva,’a literary piece by the late Kongsui Luithui, which he suggested should be included in educational curricula.
Cultural Revival and the Role of Cinema:
Phungyar MLA Qr. Leishiyo Keishing, who was also present as a special invitee, shared his thoughts on the role of cinema in shaping cultural identity. Feeling nostalgic on Muivah’s speech, Keishing spoke about the power of films in molding public opinion. “Human talent is inborn,” he said. “But to harvest that talent, we must be consistent, committed, and dedicated. Unfortunately, much of our cultural purity has been compromised due to the invasion of foreign films, particularly from Bollywood and Hollywood. We must take great care not to lose our identity in the process.”
Keishing’s reflections highlighted the ongoing challenge of balancing modern influences with the preservation of Tangkhul traditions and values.
Special Guests and Performances:
Adding further prominence to the event, Qlr. Planning Vashum, wife of Chingai MLA and Minister of Veterinary & Animal Husbandry and Transport (GoM), attended the celebration as a special guest, representing her husband. Her presence was a reminder of the broad support Meiphung Productions enjoys from various sectors of society.
The event also saw mesmerizing performances by some of Tangkhul’s most talented singers and bands, adding a melodic touch to the day’s celebrations. These musical interludes captivated the audience and added an extra layer of cultural richness to the proceedings.
A Decade of Achievements and Future Prospects:
Meiphung Productions has come a long way since its inception. Over the past ten years, it has not only made a name for itself in the regional film industry but also fostered a sense of cultural pride among the Tangkhul community. From producing award-winning films to sponsoring events like the “Wung Football League” , Meiphung Productions has left an indelible mark on both the cultural and social landscape of the region.
As the celebration concluded, the hall buzzed with excitement and anticipation for the future. Attendees, including former ADC members, Tangkhul actors, representatives from the Tangkhul Film Association, and numerous well-wishers, expressed their hopes for more groundbreaking films that would continue to inspire and educate future generations.
In his closing remarks, Ruivah expressed his gratitude to all who have supported Meiphung Productions throughout its journey. He promised that the coming years would see even greater efforts to produce films that not only entertain but also preserve and promote Tangkhul culture for years to come.
With its rich legacy and the support of the community, Meiphung Productions is poised to continue its mission of blending entertainment with cultural education, ensuring that the stories of the Tangkhul people endure for generations.
