Commander Shangpliang, a former journalist turned filmmaker, has carved a unique niche in Indian cinema by focusing on social issues often hidden from mainstream discussions. From tackling HIV/AIDS awareness to addressing the plight of prostitution, Shangpliang’s films have cast a spotlight on subjects traditionally silenced within society. His journey into filmmaking began after hearing a Union Minister stress the importance of HIV/AIDS awareness, sparking in him a sense of responsibility: “This made me think that maybe I can do something, maybe I can make a film about it,” he recalls. Since then, his work has gained wide acclaim, even earning a mention in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly.
Initially, Shangpliang grappled with the technicalities of filmmaking, a skill far from his journalistic background. Supported by a government grant, he honed his craft and now brings to life stories that resonate deeply with audiences. Beyond filmmaking, he contributes actively to his community through the Hill Farmers Union, an agricultural collective. During the COVID-19 lockdown, when his film projects faced setbacks, Shangpliang dedicated his time to helping local farmers link directly with buyers, pioneering a home delivery system new to Meghalaya.
A resilient entrepreneur, Shangpliang encountered repeated delays for his film scheduled for a February 2020 release. Setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing lockdowns pushed the release well into 2021, as the country’s second wave further stalled its debut. Despite these challenges, Shangpliang remains steadfast: “I try to see the positive side in everything. Despite being personally impacted by the lockdown, I did not allow it to stop me from doing what I love, which is filmmaking. I want to continue to make movies.” With traditional screenings uncertain, he is exploring OTT platforms to reach wider audiences.
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Marketing his films on social media, Shangpliang’s team uses Facebook to build publicity. “Facebook has helped me reach out to hundreds of people. It’s a very effective tool for marketing,” he notes. The Hill Farmers Union also leverages the platform to promote their produce, making his filmmaking and farming endeavours interwoven by a shared goal of positive impact.
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