IFFA 2025 Theme: Spotlight on Northeast India
Each year, the India Film Festival of Alberta (IFFA) embraces a distinct theme, celebrating diverse cinematic landscapes and cultural narratives. This year, IFFA presents a theme never explored before — shining a spotlight on Northeast India and the vibrant “Seven Sister States.” By highlighting the region’s rich storytelling, artistic heritage, and cinematic excellence, the festival brings a fresh and unique perspective to audiences.
Each element in this year’s theme artwork is carefully illustrated to represent the essence of Northeast India: its people, landscapes, and cultural identity. The image is not just a visual backdrop, but a tribute to the icons, freedom fighters, artists, and cultural leaders who have shaped the region’s legacy. It brings together real faces and regional symbols that reflect the heart and soul of the “Seven Sister States.” This artwork serves as a visual celebration of IFFA 2025’s focus, bringing Northeast Indian stories to the center stage in Alberta.
Explore the Artwork Below
Jyoti Prasad Agarwala
Pioneering vision that gave Northeast India its first cinematic voice.
Director of Joymoti (1935), the first Assamese film, Jyoti Prasad Agarwala is celebrated as the father of Assamese cinema. A nationalist, playwright, and poet, his work laid the foundation for the region’s cultural and artistic identity on screen.
Aribam Syam Sharma
Master storyteller who shaped Manipuri cinema.
A legendary filmmaker and composer, Aribam Syam Sharma brought Manipuri stories to global audiences through films like Imagi Ningthem. His work preserves the emotional and cultural depth of Manipur’s heritage.
Bhupen Hazarika
Voice of the people through music, poetry, and cinema.
Known as the “Bard of Brahmaputra,” Bhupen Hazarika blended folk music with cinematic storytelling, championing unity and justice across Northeast India and beyond.
Bir Tikendrajit Singh
The Lion of Manipur who defied colonial rule.
A royal commander who resisted British invasion in 1891, his bravery made him a martyr and a lasting symbol of Manipuri pride and resistance.
Adil Hussain
Global face of Assamese talent in cinema.
Born in Assam, Adil Hussain is known for powerful, nuanced performances across Indian and international films. His craft bridges Northeast India with the world stage.
Rima Das
Independent spirit redefining Assamese cinema globally.
With films like Village Rockstars, Rima Das writes, directs, shoots, and edits her own work,bringing real stories from rural Assam to the world with heart and honesty.
Dominic Sangma
Garo-language filmmaker turning memory into cinema.
From Meghalaya, Dominic Sangma’s deeply personal stories reflect themes of family, identity, and loss. His films offer a rare cinematic voice from the Garo Hills.
Mary Kom
World champion who boxed her way into history.
From Manipur, Mary Kom is a six-time world champion and Olympic medalist. She overcame great odds to become one of India’s most iconic athletes.
Bhaichung Bhutia
Sikkimese footballer who inspired a generation.
Known as the “Sikkimese Sniper,” Bhaichung Bhutia led Indian football to new heights and became a national icon from the hills of Sikkim.
Saikhom Mirabai Chanu
A weightlifter who lifted a nation’s hopes.
Olympic silver medalist from Manipur, Mirabai Chanu’s discipline and humility have inspired countless young athletes across Northeast India
Hornbill Festival
A cultural explosion uniting all tribes of Nagaland.
Held each December, the festival celebrates Naga heritage through music, dance, art, food, and rituals attracting global attention.
Tawang Monastery Gateway
Spiritual gateway to the soul of Arunachal Pradesh.
India’s largest monastery, Tawang is a center of Mahayana Buddhism and symbolizes peace, introspection, and cultural depth.
Kanglasha
Mythical protector of Manipur’s royal legacy.
The lion-dragon figure at Kangla Fort symbolizes strength, sovereignty, and cultural guardianship in Meitei mythology
Mithun (Nagaland)
Sacred animal and emblem of tribal honor.
This semi-wild forest bovine is central to Naga culture — representing wealth, peace, and social respect, especially in ceremonies and traditional exchanges.
Sangai Deer
The dancing deer of Manipur rare, graceful, and rooted in myth.
Endemic to Keibul Lamjao National Park, the Sangai deer symbolizes balance between nature, identity, and spiritual heritage.
One-Horned Rhinoceros
A conservation success story and symbol of Assam’s wild strength.
Found in Kaziranga National Park, this iconic animal reflects the region’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and natural legacy.
Red Panda
Sikkim’s gentle and elusive forest dweller.
An endangered species native to the Eastern Himalayas, the red panda represents the fragile and beautiful ecology of the region.
Hornbill Bird
Tribal symbol of strength, pride, and celebration.
Seen in headgear and folklore, the hornbill is revered across Nagaland and lends its name to the state’s most vibrant cultural festival.
Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper)
A chili as fierce as the spirit of the Northeast.
Native to Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur, the Bhut Jolokia is one of the world’s hottest chilies and a fiery icon of regional flavor and identity
Mountains of Northeast India
Nature’s Crown in the East
Misty, green, and deeply spiritual, the mountains of Northeast India from the Eastern Himalayas to the Patkai, Khasi, and Lushai ranges shape the region’s identity. These ranges cradle sacred forests, hidden villages, and cultural stories passed down through generations. More than a backdrop, they are living symbols of resilience, beauty, and belonging.