In a moment of immense pride for Meghalaya, acclaimed filmmaker and National Award winner Pradip Kurbah has brought home top honours from the 47th Moscow International Film Festival. His latest Khasi-language film Ha Lyngkha Bneng clinched the Best Film award, while Kurbah himself received the Best Director award, marking a historic achievement for Indian cinema on the global stage.
The honours were presented by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC), which annually recognises outstanding cinematic works from across the Asia-Pacific region.
Reacting to the news, Kurbah took to Instagram to express his gratitude and disbelief. “I’m overwhelmed, humbled, and filled with gratitude. Ha Lyngkha Bneng has just won Best Film and Best Director at the 47th Moscow International Film Festival,” he wrote. “To say this is a dream come true would still fall short of what I feel right now.”
A self-taught filmmaker and one of Meghalaya’s most prominent creative voices, Kurbah dedicated the international recognition to the people of his home state. “This is for Meghalaya — for its people, its stories, and its spirit,” he said. “Your faith in local cinema gives us the courage to dream, to take risks, and to tell stories that matter. This award belongs to you too.”
Kurbah, who first gained national acclaim after winning the National Film Award in 2014, has been at the forefront of promoting Meghalaya’s storytelling traditions and showcasing its natural beauty through independent cinema.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma congratulated the filmmaker, calling the achievement “a proud moment for the entire state.” He revealed that the government had supported the production of Ha Lyngkha Bneng with a grant of Rs 30 lakh, underlining the state’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
“Huge congratulations to Bah Pradip on this well-deserved recognition!” Sangma said. “His success not only highlights his extraordinary skill and perseverance but also brings international attention to Meghalaya’s vibrant culture and artistic potential. His journey is an inspiration for all.”
Kurbah’s latest triumph adds to the growing recognition of Northeastern cinema on the world stage — a testament to the power of regional storytelling and the voices emerging from India’s cultural heartlands.
