ONENESS (Amata Oina)
Synopsis:
ONENESS revolves around Ivan Martin, a young boy hailing from a conservative Christian family in Manipur, India. In a society where homosexuality is still considered a sin and prohibited, Ivan found himself
developing feelings for Pamheiba, a boy from the Meitei community. Ivan’s family, driven by their beliefs, subjected him to conversion therapy in an attempt to change him. While Ivan’s father and assertive older brother, Daniel, vehemently opposed his sexuality, his mother and sister stood by his side. Despite the relentless efforts of both families to separate them, the love between Ivan and Pamheiba only grew stronger. Tragically, Ivan’s brother, consumed by the notion that Ivan had disgraced their family, took matters into his own hands. The film sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals who dare to love freely in a society constrained by prejudice and intolerance.
The film draws inspiration from an actual event that occurred in 2013. In over 50 years of Manipuri Cinema, ONENESS is the first Manipuri film centred around same-sex relationships.
08 February, 2025 (Saturday)
1:45 PM
Venue: TANTHAPOLIS
Priyakanta Laishram
Director
Priyakanta Laishram is an actor, director, screenwriter and film editor known for socially relevant films. He began making children’s films at age 9 using a Nokia N70, winning titles like Youngest Filmmaker 2009 from Nokia and Manipur’s Rising Star 2011 from ANI. His short films, such as It’s Not My Choice (2015), and The Foul Truth (2019), have gained widespread acclaim. His 2024 debut feature, ONENESS, is the first Manipuri film focused on same-sex relationships.
Date
February 6, 2025