News & Announcement
Panel discussions mark second day of Sikkim International Film Festival 2026
Gangtok, March 20 (IPR): A panel discussion on “Filmmakers in Conservation: Crafting Independent Cinema” and “Actors in Conversation: Training, Craft and Performance” was conducted today at Chintan Bhawan in Gangtok.
The panel discussion on “Actors in Conversation: Training, Craft and Performance” featured actress Ms Cuckoo Parmeswaram, actress Ms Subhangi Dutt, and Mr Den Sherpa. The session was moderated by Mr Diwakar Basnett.
The theme of the discussion was “Becoming a Character.” The conversation revolved around understanding character development and the emotional connections that shape a role. The panellists also shared insights into their journeys in the film industry. An interactive session with students followed, where topics such as film culture in Kerala, the illusion of perfection in character portrayal, personal struggles in an acting career, and the impact of technology on contemporary cinema were discussed at length.
Thereafter, another panel discussion on “Filmmakers in Conservation: Crafting Independent Cinema” featured Chairman, IPR Department, Mr Ashit Rai, Director Mr Samten Bhutia, and filmmaker Mr Abhay Panjabi. The session was also moderated by Mr Diwakar Basnett.
During this discussion, there was extensive deliberation on encouraging local filmmakers to establish themselves in the industry, as well as on providing subsidies and incentives to those filming in Sikkim. The impact of online streaming platforms and evolving technology on the film industry was also examined. Further discussions focused on supporting independent filmmakers and organizing similar large-scale events in the future.
The discussions reflected a shared commitment towards strengthening Sikkim’s position as an emerging hub for cinema while nurturing local talent and storytelling. Participants highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustained institutional support for the growth of the regional film ecosystem.
The day concluded on an engaging note, reinforcing the festival’s role as a vibrant platform for dialogue, learning, and creative exchange among filmmakers, artists and audiences alike.
The panel discussion on “Actors in Conversation: Training, Craft and Performance” featured actress Ms Cuckoo Parmeswaram, actress Ms Subhangi Dutt, and Mr Den Sherpa. The session was moderated by Mr Diwakar Basnett.
The theme of the discussion was “Becoming a Character.” The conversation revolved around understanding character development and the emotional connections that shape a role. The panellists also shared insights into their journeys in the film industry. An interactive session with students followed, where topics such as film culture in Kerala, the illusion of perfection in character portrayal, personal struggles in an acting career, and the impact of technology on contemporary cinema were discussed at length.
Thereafter, another panel discussion on “Filmmakers in Conservation: Crafting Independent Cinema” featured Chairman, IPR Department, Mr Ashit Rai, Director Mr Samten Bhutia, and filmmaker Mr Abhay Panjabi. The session was also moderated by Mr Diwakar Basnett.
During this discussion, there was extensive deliberation on encouraging local filmmakers to establish themselves in the industry, as well as on providing subsidies and incentives to those filming in Sikkim. The impact of online streaming platforms and evolving technology on the film industry was also examined. Further discussions focused on supporting independent filmmakers and organizing similar large-scale events in the future.
The discussions reflected a shared commitment towards strengthening Sikkim’s position as an emerging hub for cinema while nurturing local talent and storytelling. Participants highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustained institutional support for the growth of the regional film ecosystem.
The day concluded on an engaging note, reinforcing the festival’s role as a vibrant platform for dialogue, learning, and creative exchange among filmmakers, artists and audiences alike.
