Shillong, April 3: ‘Ha Lyngkha Bneng’ (The Elysian Field), a Khasi-language film directed by Pradip Kurbah, has reached a significant milestone by being selected for the Main Competition at the prestigious 47th Moscow International Film Festival (MIFF) in 2025.

This honour places the film among a distinguished selection of global cinema showcased at one of the oldest and most esteemed film festivals in the world, first established in 1935. The festival will take place in Moscow from April 17 to April 24, bringing together some of the finest filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from across the globe.

The journey of ‘Ha Lyngkha Bneng’ began in 2020 when it was selected for both the Asian Project Market in Busan, South Korea, and the Co-Production Market at Film Bazaar, organized by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) of India. These recognitions highlighted the project’s potential early on, paving the way for its development into a cinematic achievement. The film’s production spanned two years, capturing the essence of all four seasons, and was filmed in and around Sohra, Meghalaya, showcasing the region’s mesmerizing landscapes and cultural depth.

Produced by Kurbah Films in association with Hello Meghalaya, Pomus New Horizons, Ka Knup Creatives, and Cat N Mouse Entertainment, ‘Ha Lyngkha Bneng’ features a stellar ensemble cast, including Richard Kharpuri, Helena Duiia, Baia Marbaniang, Albert Mawriew, Merlvin Mukhim, and Jeetesh Sharma.

The film delves into profound themes of community, loneliness, and the enduring strength of human connections. Set in a secluded village gradually deserted due to urban migration, ‘Ha Lyngkha Bneng’ paints a poignant portrait of friendship as a means of survival. Through shared moments of grief, longing, and companionship, the narrative explores the resilience of the human spirit and the unbreakable bonds that define us.

The selection at the Moscow International Film Festival marks a historic achievement for Khasi cinema, offering an unprecedented opportunity to present the region’s rich storytelling traditions to an international audience. In recent years, cinema from India’s Northeast has gained visibility on global platforms, and Ha Lyngkha Bneng’s inclusion in the Main Competition at MIFF further cements the region’s growing cinematic influence. This milestone not only elevates Khasi cinema but also brings global attention to the diverse and deeply rooted narratives emerging from Northeast India.

Pradip Kurbah, a visionary filmmaker known for his evocative storytelling and commitment to indigenous narratives, continues to push the boundaries of regional cinema. His work sheds light on lesser-seen perspectives, bridging cultural gaps and bringing the essence of Khasi life to a global audience. The film’s selection at MIFF is a testament to the increasing recognition of Indian cinema on the international stage.

With its premiere at MIFF 2025, ‘Ha Lyngkha Bneng’ is set to captivate audiences worldwide, offering a heartfelt and deeply resonant tale that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. The film’s inclusion in the Main Competition underscores the potential of Khasi cinema and its ability to forge connections through its universal themes of resilience, belonging, and the fundamental need for human connection.

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