Lakhipuronline Digital Desk, August 8, 2026: Art has long served as the most resilient bridge during times of societal fracture, offering a language of healing when conventional dialogue falters. On Saturday evening, this profound sentiment echoed through the auditorium of Chanura Leikol (Children's Home) in Khurai Chairelthong, Imphal. In a culturally significant event, Ipak Films Production Manipur officially released its latest patriotic music video, "Poknapham Lamdam Ima Nungshibi" (My Birthplace, My Beloved Motherland), alongside a special screening of the Manipuri feature film "Yahouthengba Khoimu."
A Timely Message of Healing and Brotherhood
According to the official release from the organizers, the newly launched music video—penned and produced by Wahengbam Hemabati and directed by Rakesh Naorem—is far more than a cinematic endeavor. It is a strategic cultural outreach aimed at fostering peace. Featuring the prominent actress Ithoi Oinam, the visual narrative is intricately woven around themes of indigenous solidarity, reminding the populace of their shared heritage.
Addressing the gathering, lyricist and producer Wahengbam Hemabati shed light on the deeply emotional impetus behind the project. She reflected on the socio-political challenges and ethnic unrest that surfaced across the state in May 2023, noting how these events threatened to unravel the historically interwoven fabric of the region's diverse communities.
"The unprecedented social turbulence that emerged in May 2023 instilled a deep sense of apprehension regarding the territorial and emotional integrity of our state. Driven by an urgent desire to reaffirm our bonds and spread a message of love and unity among all indigenous communities, I was inspired to write this song and bring it to the public as a visual prayer for our motherland."
Director Rakesh Naorem echoed these sentiments, delivering a powerful reminder of the region's historical resilience. He emphasized that the ancestral land has weathered countless historical storms and battles, defended by the unwavering courage of their forefathers. Naorem stressed the urgent need for contemporary generations—across both the hills and the valleys—to stand united, dissolving manufactured divides to protect the indigenous identity of the region.
The Historical Resonance of August in Northeast India
The timing of this release carries immense historical weight. For the Manipuri diaspora spread across Northeast India—including the vibrant communities residing in Assam's Barak Valley and Cachar district—the month of August is a period of deep emotional and patriotic reflection. It marks the observance of Patriots' Day on August 13, a solemn occasion honoring the martyrs of the 1891 Anglo-Manipuri War, such as Bir Tikendrajit and Thangal General, who made the ultimate sacrifice defending their sovereignty against British colonial forces.
Historically, this shared reverence for the region's freedom fighters has acted as a unifying force, transcending modern geographical boundaries between Assam and Manipur. Educational institutions across these regions have traditionally utilized the weeks leading up to August 13 to host cultural programs, poetry recitations, and musical competitions that instill a sense of civic duty and historical pride in younger generations. However, local cultural activists have observed a gradual decline in these grassroots patriotic events in recent years.
Reviving the Spirit of Nationalism in Education and Culture
This exact concern was brought to the forefront by the event's Chief Guest, N. Surjitkanta (BB Surjit), the Chairman In-charge of Film Forum Manipur. He delivered an impassioned speech regarding the crucial role of schools and colleges in shaping the cultural consciousness of the youth.
Surjitkanta lamented that the vibrant tradition of hosting patriotic singing and poetry competitions in local neighborhoods and educational institutions ahead of Patriots' Day has visibly diminished. He praised the timely initiative of Wahengbam Hemabati and Rakesh Naorem, noting that the release of "Poknapham Lamdam Ima Nungshibi" serves as a vital catalyst to reignite that dormant spirit of nationalism. He further urged the artistic community to continue producing such meaningful content to guide the state through its current challenging phase.
Narendra Ningomba, a distinguished cultural activist and Manipur State Kala Akademi Awardee who attended as the Guest of Honour, reinforced this perspective. He reiterated that August is the most defining month in Manipuri history. Producing art that honors the sacrifices of past heroes, he argued, is essential for nurturing a robust sense of patriotism and shared destiny among today's citizens.
Spotlight on Ipak Films Production
The evening was presided over by Dr. RK Nayansana Devi, Former Chairperson of the Manipur State Social Welfare Board and Chief Patron of Ipak Films Production. Under her patronage, the banner has become a cornerstone of the regional film industry, consistently delivering diverse and culturally relevant content.
During her presidential address, Dr. Devi highlighted the production house's ongoing commitment to the arts. She proudly recounted the successful creation of various cinematic works, including the feature film "Yahouthengba Khoimu" (which was screened for the audience following the music video release), critically acclaimed short films like "Ngak Youna Phumkhre," "Thounagi Nongju," and "Nom Nom Sagai Tong," as well as popular music videos such as "Ima Nangbu Nungshibi," "Lak u ko Toina," and "Loktak Imana." She expressed immense satisfaction with the new release, viewing it as a crown jewel in their continuous effort to uplift the cultural narrative of the state.
The Creative Visionaries Behind the Screen
A production of this scale and emotional depth requires a dedicated team of regional professionals. The successful execution of "Poknapham Lamdam Ima Nungshibi" was made possible by the following artistic crew:
- Playback Singer: Huidrom Pushparani
- Music Director: AK Yangoi
- Cinematography: Sushil Yumlembam
- Choreography: Dr. Saterjit Thiyam
- Makeup Artistry: Abujam Ragini
- Costume Design: Bimol Taorem
- Editing: Mohendro Kams
- Art Direction: Ta-Khoimu
- Production Controller: Neha Yumkhaibam
- Production Manager: Naorem Romila
As Northeast India continues to navigate complex socio-political landscapes, the active role of local cinema and music remains undeniably crucial. Art forms like "Poknapham Lamdam Ima Nungshibi" do not merely entertain; they document the emotional pulse of a community, offering a harmonious vision for a united and peaceful future.
✍️ Published by Lakhipuronline Team
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