Mail News Service
Jamshedpur, Nov 18: Day 4 of Samvaad 2025 strengthened the conclave’s mission to spotlight tribal perspectives, community leadership and traditional wisdom.
The day featured intense dialogues, vibrant cultural expressions and the much-awaited declaration of winners of the 8th National Film Festival of Samuday se Saath.
Morning sessions across Akhra encouraged participants to view development through an indigenous lens.
Discussions touched upon the market relevance of tribal art and handicrafts, the efficacy of traditional healing recipes and the representation of tribal identity through cinema.
The 8th National Short Film Competition received an enthusiastic response with 42 entries from 38 filmmakers representing 11 tribes across 13 States and Union Territories.
Community Category Winners:
Puise Dare, The Money Plant – Ramesh Kumar Hembram (Santhal, Odisha) – Winner & Popular Choice Award
Oloh me Babu – Rahit Marndi (Santhal, Odisha) – Winner
Phulon – Manoj Kumar (Oraon, Jharkhand) – Special Jury Mention
Institutional Category Winners:
By the Home – Mankap Nokwoham (Wancho, Arunachal Pradesh) – 1st Place & Popular Choice Award
Mhari Topli Ma Kekda – Laxminarayan Devda (Korku, Madhya Pradesh) – 2nd Place
Sashakt Naari, Samarth Gram (She Begins to Lead) – Roshani Chouhan (Bhilala, Madhya Pradesh) – 3rd Place
Black Gold – Raj Mohan Soren (Santhal, Jharkhand) – Special Jury Mention
Palimpsest – Shristy Marandi (Santhal, Jharkhand) – Special Jury Mention
Speaking on the occasion, Sourav Roy, CEO, Tata Steel Foundation, said Samvaad continues to provide an essential platform for tribal filmmakers to voice their realities and aspirations. He added that participation from over 72 filmmakers this year highlights the growing creative energy within tribal communities.
The evening cultural showcase brought alive the rhythms and traditions of the Santhal, Mizo, Mavilan, Gujjar and Sabar communities, followed by electrifying sets by the Hornbill cohort and Sofiyum band from Sikkim.
Meanwhile, visitors thronged Aatithya, the tribal food pop-up, indulging in regional cuisines. Art, handicrafts and healing stalls at Gopal Maidan once again drew admiration for their authenticity and cultural depth.
Samvaad 2025 continued to reaffirm itself as a vibrant platform celebrating tribal identity, storytelling and heritage.
