![JMA – Ninja & Deep Jandu [Official MV] Kaptaan](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-dsfIh319s0/maxresdefault.jpg "JMA – Ninja & Deep Jandu [Official MV] Kaptaan")
The full-length documentary, produced by Manjoy Lourembam, Dr. Radhesyam Oinam, and Viswamithra Universals, delves into the untold history of the fierce Battle of Imphal—one of the decisive turning points of the Second World War—fought between Japanese forces and the Allied troops in Manipur. Shot over a decade, the film offers an evocative exploration of Manipur’s forgotten war landscapes, guided by war researcher Rajeshwor Yumnam, who features prominently throughout the narrative.
Following the screening, a red-carpet event brought together director Borun Thokchom, the cast, crew, and festival delegates in celebration of the film’s milestone premiere.
Described as a powerful cinematic reflection, “Battlefield” illuminates the enduring wounds of WWII in Manipur through survivors’ voices and lived memories. It also confronts the poignant contrast between grand wartime commemorations abroad and the silence surrounding Manipur’s present humanitarian struggles.
The documentary carries added significance as it was incubated and developed through MSFDS’ “Imphal Documentor”—a 5-day project development lab organized in 2022 with support from Documentary Resource Initiative (DRI), Kolkata, and Television Cine Foundation Manipur.
This year, the Indian Panorama selection committee has shortlisted 25 feature films and 20 non-feature films for IFFI 2025.Meanwhile, adding to Manipur’s presence at the festival, Dinesh Naorem’s feature film “Oitharei”, selected in the Panorama (Feature) category, is slated for screening on 27 November. The film stars Suraj Ngashepam, Sanjuna, Sunny, and Nandakumar in lead roles.
