Imphal, July 18, 2026: Manipuri cinema achieved another major national recognition as the feature film ‘Sunita’ won the Best Feature Film in Manipuri award at the 72nd National Film Awards.
The winners of the 72nd National Film Awards for films certified in 2024 were announced on Saturday, honouring outstanding achievements in feature films, non-feature films and writings on cinema.
Selected under the Regional Film category, ‘Sunita’ was adjudged the Best Feature Film in Manipuri. The prestigious recognition further strengthens the growing presence and reputation of Manipuri film on the national stage.
Despite working with limited resources, Manipuri filmmakers have continued to earn recognition through compelling storytelling, socially relevant themes and distinct artistic expression.
A Story of Courage and Independence
Directed by Yumnam Ajit Singh, ‘Sunita’ chronicles the life and struggles of Moirangthem Sunita, who loses her eyesight at a young age but courageously strives to build an independent life despite her visual impairment.
Actress Narmada Sougaijam plays the title character, Sunita, portraying her struggles, courage and journey towards self-reliance with sensitivity and conviction.
The film presents the difficulties, social barriers and everyday challenges faced by Sunita while highlighting her determination to live with dignity and independence.
It also draws attention to the challenges faced by persons with visual impairment while underlining their abilities, aspirations and right to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
A Proud Moment for Manipuri Cinema
The National Film Awards are regarded as India’s highest recognition for excellence in cinema. Winning a National Award is considered one of the most prestigious achievements for any filmmaker, actor or technical professional.
The victory of ‘Sunita’ is therefore not only a proud moment for its cast and crew but also for Manipur and the entire Manipuri film industry.
The award highlights the creative strength, artistic quality and thematic diversity of Manipuri cinema before a national audience.
The 2024 certification year will also be remembered as one of the strongest years for Manipuri cinema in recent times. It is rare for the industry to produce several films of high artistic quality and ambition within a single year.
While ‘Sunita’ ultimately secured the Best Feature Film in Manipuri award, the year will also be remembered for new themes, creative experimentation and a renewed commitment to powerful storytelling in Manipuri cinema.
Film Produced by Four Organisations
The film was directed by Yumnam Ajit Singh and jointly produced by Skyline Pictures, Khuman Lampak Pictures, HM Production and Cultural Society Khuman Maheikol Production.
The cast and technical team worked together to bring Sunita’s real-life struggles, resilience and confidence to the screen in an emotionally engaging manner.
The winners of the 72nd National Film Awards were announced by Jayaraj, Chairperson of the Feature Film Jury; Aseem Sinha, Chairperson of the Non-Feature Film Jury; and A Chandrasekhar, Chairperson of the Best Writing on Cinema Jury.
They were joined by Dr Ajay Nagabhushan M N, Joint Secretary for Films, and Dhirendra Ojha, Principal Director General of the Press Information Bureau.
The national recognition earned by ‘Sunita’ once again demonstrates that Manipuri cinema continues to make a strong impact on the national stage through its local stories, human emotions and engagement with important social issues.
Naorem Mohen is the Editor of Signpost News. Explore his views and opinion on X: @laimacha.