Shillong, March 2: A Khasi-language film supported by Meghalaya’s tourism department has captured major international honours, strengthening the Northeast’s presence on the global cinema map. Ha Lyngkha Bneng, directed by Pradip Kurbah, recently held a grand premiere at Kelvin Gold Cinema in Guwahati, drawing filmmakers and cultural personalities from across the region.
Backed by Hello Meghalaya, the state’s OTT platform dedicated to funding and promoting local storytelling, the film explores the intertwined lives of six individuals in rural Meghalaya. Through an unfiltered Khasi perspective, it examines their aspirations, relationships and evolving emotional landscapes, weaving themes of identity, resilience and everyday realism that have resonated with audiences well beyond the state.
The Guwahati screening marked a celebratory homecoming following a string of achievements in late 2025. The film secured the prestigious Golden St George and other top honours at the 31st Kolkata International Film Festival in November, signalling strong critical acclaim.
Its international recognition continued when it won the NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film at the Moscow International Film Festival, raising hopes for a new wave of cinematic talent emerging from Meghalaya and the wider Northeast.
Hello Meghalaya has been at the forefront of efforts to spotlight regional heritage, providing financial backing, promotional support and creative resources to local filmmakers. The platform’s involvement has played a key role in bringing authentic stories from the Northeast to national and global audiences, contributing to the growth of a sustainable and vibrant film ecosystem in the region.
