Assamese films made a remarkable impact at the 70th National Film Awards for 2022, with five films—three feature films and two non-feature films—receiving prestigious honours. These films, which explore themes ranging from women's journeys of self-discovery to the inspiring life of anti-witch hunt activist Padmashri Birubala Rabha, were recognised by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Friday.

The three feature films—Emuthi Puthi (A Very Fishy Trip), Sikaisal (If Only Trees Could Talk), and Xunyota (Void)—were awarded the Rajat Kamal Award, one of the highest accolades in Indian cinema.

Meanwhile, the non-feature films Birubala: Witch to Padmashri and Hargila — The Greater Adjutant Stork received special mention certificates.

Emuthi Puthi, directed by Kulanandini Mahanta, was selected as the Best Assamese Film of the year. The film tells the story of Ritika, a rebellious teenager who lives with her mother and grandmother. Ritika needs money to escape from home, while her eccentric grandmother, Makhoni, embarks on a 500-kilometre journey in search of a mythical fish, believing it will grant her a perfect exit from the world.

It may be mentioned here that Emuthi Puthi is the first film from the Northeast to be shot entirely on an iPhone.

ALSO READ | Emuthi Puthi: Northeast's First iPhone Movie

Bobby Sarma Baruah's Sikaisal, awarded Best Tiwa Language Film, focuses on the poignant life of a teacher who retires, only to find his once-bustling school filled with leaves instead of students.

Xunyota (Void), directed by Nabapan Deka, was recognised as the Best Short Film.

It delves into the unspoken nuances of grief and loss, following the life of young schoolgirl Bina as she navigates her mother's terminal illness.

In the non-feature category, Hargila: The Greater Adjutant Stork, directed by IGP Parthasarathi Mahanta, and Birubala: Witch to Padmashri, directed by renowned actor Aimee Baruah, received special mentions.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to social media platform X to congratulate the winners, acknowledging their significant contributions to Assamese cinema.

"Your contributions in taking forward Assamese cinema to new heights are well appreciated," Sarma wrote.

Congratulations to all the winners from Assam on being announced as the winners and recipients of 'Special Mention' at the 70th #NationalFilmAwards

Your contributions in taking forward Assamese cinema to new heights is well appreciated ? pic.twitter.com/3kK2T9BQjc

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) August 16, 2024