Imphal, January 28 2010: Failure on the part of the Government of Manipur to institute any award related to films is very unfortunate, noted film maker Aribam Syam Sharma has stated.

He was talking to media-persons at Manipur Press Club here today on the sidelines of a reception function hosted jointly by Cine Artistes and Technician Association, Manipur and Manipur Film Journalists and Critics Association in connection with receiving numerous awards by Manipuri film makers at 56th National Film Award, 11th Mumbai International Film Festival, 2010 as well as in North East Short Film Competition of the 2nd Cine ASA International Film Festival.

Syam Sharma pointed out that though many personalities in the field of Shumang Leela and theatre as well as authors have been honoured with awards from the side of Manipur State Kala Akademi with due assistance from the State Government, film related personalities have not been given such honours till date.

The recent streak of winning awards by the Manipur film makers at various International and National film festivals has given a new impetus to the film movement in the State apart from showing that Manipuri films are not inferior to any other.

At this juncture, if the Government of Manipur gives some sort of encouragement to the film makers and recognise their efforts, then Manipuri film would definitely go places, Shyam Sharma observed.

Film makers who have been nominated for various awards were also present at the occasion.

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