Apaiba Leichil


Apaiba Leichil is a 2021 Manipuri film directed by Bobby Wahengbam. It is jointly produced by Wahengbam Tomba, Hanjabam Sobhananda Sharma and Bobby Wahengbam under the banner of Third Eye Productions. The film is based on the short story Nungshibagi Saklon by Rajmani Ayekpam. It stars Bishesh Huirem and Arun Yumnam in the lead roles. The film won three awards at the 14th Manipur State Film Awards 2022. It got official selections at the 18th International Film Festival of Thrissur 2023, Kerala and Kashish International Queer Film Festival 2023, Mumbai. The movie was screened at the Sangai Film Festival 2022, which was organised as a part of the Manipur Sangai Festival.
The film shows the conditions of the in Manipur. It shows one Nupi Sabi becoming popular in the Shumang Kumhei troupe but whether the popularity of Nupi Sabis is related to their personal romantic life and social outlook is not properly known.

Cast

  • Yumnam Arun
  • Bishesh Huirem
  • Naoba
  • Laimayum Nirmala
  • Jenny
  • Rohit
  • Heisnam Geeta
  • Nunglen Luwang
  • Reshmina

Accolades

Bishesh Huirem bagged the Best Actor Award at the 14th Manipur State Film Awards 2022. With this, Huirem became the first transgender person to win the award.
AwardCategoryWinner's nameResult
14th Manipur State Film Awards 2022Best ActorBishesh HuiremWon
14th Manipur State Film Awards 2022Best EditorR.K. LalmaniWon
14th Manipur State Film Awards 2022Special MentionBobby WahengbamWon
5th Sailadhar Baruah Film Awards 2023Jury Special MentionBishesh HuiremWon