Imphal: Karbi-language feature film Kangbo Aloti – The Lost Path, directed by National Film Award winner Khanjan Kishore Nath, has won the Best Feature Film Award at the second edition of Tribal Frames Manipur 2026.

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh presented the award during the festival’s closing ceremony in Imphal on Sunday.

Reacting to the recognition in a social media post, Nath said he felt honoured to receive the award from the Chief Minister. He also thanked the festival jury, organisers and everyone associated with the film.

Produced by Ranjit Teron, the 108-minute drama explores the human consequences of insurgency in Assam during the early 2000s.

The story centres on Longsing, played by Harmony Bey, a young militant assigned to infiltrate a remote village in Karbi Anglong to gather intelligence and recruit local youths. Disguised as a villager’s nephew, he encounters Birensing, portrayed by Rajib Kro, a schoolteacher who believes education and peace offer an alternative to armed conflict.

Initially tasked with eliminating the outspoken teacher, Longsing gradually begins questioning his involvement in violence after witnessing Birensing’s humanistic approach.

Rather than presenting a conventional conflict between good and evil, the film examines the circumstances that push young people towards militancy, including unemployment and limited access to education. It also explores how knowledge, dialogue and peaceful engagement can challenge the cycle of violence.

The film features cinematography by Parashmani Bora, sound design by Debajit Gayan, music by Stephane Kara and editing by Sersumbi Terang.

Film earns recognition at International Festivals

Kangbo Aloti – The Lost Path had received recognition at several film festivals before winning the top honour in Imphal.

It previously secured the German Star of India 2026 Award for Best Feature Film at the Indian Film Festival Stuttgart. The film also received the Special Jury Award at the 31st Kolkata International Film Festival.

In addition, it has been screened at major film festivals in Bengaluru, Heidelberg and New Delhi.

UK China Film Collab has also acquired the film’s distribution rights, marking another milestone in its journey beyond regional cinema.