India, Nov. 29 -- Manipuri feature film Oitharei ("Save My Soul") made a significant impact at the 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, screening at INOX Panjim on Thursday evening.

The debut feature by director Dinesh Naorem used the prestigious global platform to draw urgent attention to the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Manipur.

The 102-minute feature was selected for the highly competitive Indian Panorama section, marking a notable moment for Manipuri cinema. This screening breaks a seven-year gap since a Manipuri feature film was last showcased at IFFI in 2019 (Eigi Kona (Stallone, My Pony)).

Earlier in the day, the cast and crew of Oitharei walked the IFFI red carpet, utilizing the occasion to sp...