Mizoram Short Film Competition 2026 Spotlights Tribal Culture; ‘Maimizial’ Takes Top Honor

AIZAWL — Celebrating a rich confluence of local talent and tribal heritage, the Mizo Short Film Competition 2026 recently concluded in Aizawl with widespread enthusiasm. Organized by the Government of Mizoram’s Information & Public Relations (I&PR) Department in collaboration with the Mizoram Film Development Committee, the festival screened 41 short films that offered a compelling look into the state’s social concerns, cultural depth, and the creative vision of its young filmmakers.

Aizawl, often celebrated as India’s "Silent City" for its high civic sense, disciplined lifestyle, and strict adherence to traffic rules, provided a fitting backdrop for the event. Organizers noted that the community’s core values of sensitivity, collective responsibility, and social awareness were heavily reflected in the cinematic works presented.

Award Winners Announced

The competition recognized several outstanding filmmakers for their contributions to Mizo cinema:

• First Prize: Awarded to ‘Maimizial’, directed by Raymond Colney Siam, which includes a cash prize of ₹2.50 lakh.

• Second Prize: Awarded to ‘Zualtei Pa’, directed by H. Lalsangzela, taking home ₹1.25 lakh.

• Third Prize: Awarded to ‘Nunna’, directed by Lalrohlua Renthlei, receiving ₹70,000.

• Consolation Prizes: Five additional films were honored with a cash award of ₹30,000 each.

Cinema as a Tool for Social Change

Serving as the Chief Guest, Pu B. Lalchhanzoava, Minister for Information, Public Relations and Printing Services, Government of Mizoram, emphasized the profound impact of quality cinema. He urged filmmakers to prioritize content quality and social responsibility, noting that film plays a vital role in guiding society in a positive direction.

The Minister also utilized the platform to announce the upcoming ‘Lemchan – Mizo Film Festival’, scheduled to be held from March 16 to 18, 2026. The upcoming festival is expected to further bolster Mizoram’s growing film industry and provide even greater exposure to local creators.

Fostering Local Talent for Global Platforms

Pratap Chhetri, Deputy Director of the I&PR Department, highlighted that the festival is part of a continuous initiative to elevate local artists. He expressed optimism that providing national and international platforms to emerging artists will help them gain well-deserved recognition and bring pride to the state.

Insights from the Jury

The challenging task of evaluating the 41 submissions fell to a distinguished jury panel comprising:

• Mina Zoliani, Joint Director, I&PR and Member, Mizoram Film Development Committee

• Pu Vanlaltlana Varte, former Programme Executive, Doordarshan Kendra, Aizawl

• Pu B. Lalbiakvela, filmmaker from Lunglei

• Lalsawmliana Pachuaau

• Madhusudan, Assistant Professor, Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Aizawl

Reflecting on the evaluation process, IIMC Assistant Professor Madhusudan stated that films serve as a mirror to society. He commended the production quality, acting talent, and the fresh perspectives of Mizo youth showcased during the festival. Madhusudan further praised the people of Mizoram for their humility, cooperative spirit, high literacy rate, and exceptional civic sense, calling his experience on the jury both enriching and unforgettable.