A three-day Northeast film festival on the theme ‘Fragrances from the Northeast’, which seeks to showcase the potential of the region in the media and the entertainment sector, was inaugurated by Minister for Information and Broadcasting Prakash Javadekar here on Friday.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Javadekar said the growth of the Northeast in these fields was illustrated in the increasing number of awards won by the films from the region at the National Film Awards every year. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, he said, will always provide all possible support for promoting films from the region.

The Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute (SRFTI) at Kolkata, it was pointed out, provides a platform for the students of the Northeastern region to harness their talent in the domain of film-making.

Mr. Javadekar said the Centre was fully committed to promoting new initiatives in the region across different sectors as it wanted to harness the rich potential of the region with regards to its geographical and cultural diversity.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma highlighted the different initiatives undertaken by the State to build a strong base for film-making in the region. He specifically mentioned the attractive and appropriate policies being developed to provide infrastructure to host any international film festival.

Information and Broadcasting Secretary Bimal Julka said all support will be extended to development of film-making in the Northeastern region and funds will not be a constraint.

He also touched upon the creative potential of the region with regard to young film-makers.

The inaugural function was attended by actors and directors from the region, including Manju Borah, Geetanjali Thapa, Oinam Gautam Singh, Mapuia Chawngthu, Alex Lalchhuankima, Abdul Muzid, Tashi Lhamu, Leishangthem Tonthoingambi Devi and Meena Debbarma.

It was followed by a cultural evening by Papon, singer and composer, along with his band ‘The East India Company’. Khawnglung Run (Mizoram), directed by Mapuia Chawngthu, was the opening film of the festival.

A total of nine films, including seven feature films, from the Northeast will be showcased during the festival. Other attractions include setting up of an exhibition-cum-sale counter showcasing creative artefacts, cuisines, costumes and rich cultural heritage of the region.