Conrad Sangma inaugurates first Shillong International Film Festival, positions Meghalaya as creative hub

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on March 25 inaugurated the first edition of the Shillong International Film Festival, asserting that the state is emerging as a hub of creativity and cinema.

Describing the festival as a celebration of storytelling and artistic expression, Sangma said it offers a vital platform to showcase the talent of filmmakers and artists from Meghalaya and the wider Northeast region. He expressed satisfaction over the inclusion of international films in the inaugural edition, highlighting the festival’s global outlook.

The Chief Minister noted that Meghalaya has long nurtured a deep appreciation for the arts, even when filmmakers and artists had limited institutional support. He said the government has taken several initiatives over the past eight years to strengthen the creative ecosystem and support emerging talent.

Among key initiatives, Sangma highlighted Hello Meghalaya, a government-backed OTT platform aimed at providing filmmakers with greater visibility and financial returns.

He also outlined future plans to boost the state’s film infrastructure, including the Cabinet-approved Shillong Film City project and the proposed establishment of a film institute to nurture talent and attract investment in the sector.

During the inaugural, Sangma also presented awards to filmmakers and prominent personalities from the film industry, officials said, marking a significant step in Meghalaya’s push to position itself as a leading destination for cinema and artistic expression.