Hyderabad to Host Niri9 International Film Festival 2025
The Niri9 International Film Festival is set to return with its third edition in Hyderabad on January 10 and 11, 2026, marking a significant moment of cultural convergence between the North Eastern region and Telangana. Organised with the cooperation of His Excellency, the Governor of Telangana, and Telangana Cultural Department and with the support of government of Assam, the festival reflects the state’s growing interest in deepening artistic and cultural linkages with the North East.
This year, the festival received an impressive 176 film entries across categories, including 40 Feature Films, 65 Short Films, 56 Shorter Films, and 15 Documentaries, underscoring its expanding presence on the national and global film landscape. Out of this the top 19 films will be screened in the final round at Hyderabad. (Feature Film 6, Short Film 5, Shorter Film 5, Documentary 3)
Niri9, the organiser of the festival, is an OTT platform under NIRI Media (OPC) Private Limited, Guwahati. The platform showcases web series, films, animations, documentaries, and music to audiences across the globe. Rooted in the belief that entertainment should transcend boundaries, Niri9 envisions a world where every story, big or small, finds its audience. More than a streaming platform, Niri9 serves as a gateway for diverse narratives and is committed to amplifying underrepresented voices, particularly from the North East.
The festival will bring together an exceptional gathering of filmmakers, artists, and dignitaries. Among the notable guests expected are Shri Bimal Bora, Cabinet Minister, Government of Assam; legendary musician Lou Majaw as Guest of Honour; acclaimed actor Seema Biswas; global performer Carlyta Mouhini; renowned sound designer Amrit Pritam; and several distinguished personalities from the Telugu film industry who will join as jury members and special invitees. Adding to the cultural fabric of the event, the festival will also feature performances of global performer Carlyta Mouhini , legendary musician Lou Majaw Monisha Bordoloi and the event will also be showcasing the traditional dance and music of Assamese and Telangana folk and traditional dance during the event.
Festival Director Dr Junmoni Devi Khaund, who was recently felicitated by the Governor of Telangana, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma, and Cinematography Minister Shri Komatireddy Venkat Reddy during the NE Connect Festival, shared her vision for this edition. She said, “This event is not just a festival; it’s a movement of stories, cultures, and connections. Hosting the festival in Hyderabad reflects our commitment to bringing the North East and Telangana closer through cinema. With the invaluable support of His Excellency the Governor and the Telangana Cultural Department, we hope to create a space where filmmakers, audiences, and storytellers truly discover each other.”
The Niri9 International Film Festival 2025 promises to be a vibrant and enriching celebration of cinema, storytelling, and cultural unity, bringing together diverse creative communities in the heart of Hyderabad.
