Restored Premiere

India | 2024 | 60M | Manipuri

Ishanou epitomizes the essence of Manipuri Cinema, blending deep cultural narratives with poignant human emotions. Directed by master filmmaker of Manipur, Aribam Syam Sharma, the film highlights his mastery in depicting the social, spiritual, and emotional struggles of individuals within Manipur’s rural backdrop. Aribam is regarded as a  who single-handed put Manipuri Cinema on the global map.

Ishanou probes into the Maibi cult of Manipur, telling the tale of a woman who abandons her family to follow a spiritual calling. The film intricately explores her inner turmoil, cultural traditions, and the emotional cost of spiritual commitment.

This screening is available to all valid ticket holders

Ishanou | DDK PPC | 1991 | 91 min

• Aribam Syam Sharma- Anoubam Kiranmala * Kangabam Tomba * Cast and Crew
• Lear More ( clip to…) – Teaser – Cast & Crew- Press Materials – Venue –Synopsis – Date & Time of Schedule
• Content Advisory: Disturbing supernatural fits
• Fiction | Realist Draama | India – IN BLACK SQUARES
• Director –Photo and Profile –Producer
• Programme Presented by : Shivendra Dungarpur
• Meet the Press

Cast & Crew

Cast: Kangabam Tomba, Anoubam Kiranmala, Soraisam Dhiren

Crew: Aribam Syam Sharma (Music & Direction), M.K. Binodini Devi (Script & Costume), Girish Padhiar (DoP), Ujjal Nandy (Editor)

SYNOPSIS:

Ishanou is a poignant tale of love, loss, and spiritual calling set against the backdrop of Manipuri culture. It follows the story of Tampha, who abandons her husband and daughter to join the Maibi sect of priestesses, responding to the deity’s call. However, her immersion in the mystical world of the Maibis is shadowed by the deep anguish of being separated from her child. The film skillfully contrasts the spiritual realm of the Maibis with the rhythms of everyday life. The director’s subtle approach, delicate camerawork, and understated performances, combined with a vivid portrayal of Maibi culture and the traditional music of Manipur, lend the film a unique authenticity that blends storytelling with elements of documentary and ethnography.