Sunil Zode Pushes for Collaboration to Empower North East Filmmakers at NIIFF 2025

Chairman of the Indian Chamber of Commerce for Affirmative Action (ICCAA), Sunil Zode, made a compelling appeal for greater support and collaboration to uplift North East Indian filmmakers at the Northeast International Film Festival (NIIFF) in Mumbai. He emphasized the region’s immense cultural richness while drawing attention to the systemic challenges that continue to limit its cinematic growth.

The event was graced by dignitaries including Hon. Krishna Pimple, Consul of Tanzania in India & CMD of CISB Group; Hon. MLA Aslam Shaikh; Shri Atul Kulkarni of Namaste Foundation; Mr. Nitin Dhanukar, Director of Orange City; Shri Kailash Jaiswar; and several eminent personalities from the cultural and film fraternity. Mr. Zode extended his congratulations to festival organisers Shiraj Henry, Mohan Das, Anuraj Tripathi, Rebecca Changkija Sema, and Jutikaa Mahanta, along with the ICCAA team and associates, for their tireless efforts in elevating the festival to its present stature.

Reflecting on the festival’s journey, Zode shared, “When we began this journey with Find Studioz, the vision was simple – to create a platform where the hidden gems of North East India could shine. These films are not just entertainment; they are windows into the heart, culture, and traditions of this beautiful region.”

While praising the creativity and storytelling prowess of North East filmmakers, he candidly highlighted persistent hurdles such as limited access to finance and subsidies, lack of structured marketing networks, and the difficulty of reaching larger audiences. He acknowledged the support of the Government of India and various State Governments so far but urged for dedicated schemes, subsidies, and marketing platforms specifically tailored to North East cinema.

Calling for a unified industry response, Mr. Zode urged mainstream filmmakers and production houses to collaborate with North East creators. “Not as charity, but as an investment in India’s cultural diversity. If government, industry, and creative communities work together, we can ensure the voice of the North East is not just heard, but celebrated across India and the world,” he said.

The Northeast International Film Festival continues to serve as a vital platform to showcase untapped talent and authentic narratives from the region, fostering cultural dialogue while positioning North East cinema on both national and global stages.