Bala Hijam
Surja Bala Hijam, better known as Bala Hijam, is an Indian actress, who predominantly appears in Manipuri films. She is known for her roles in [Boong (film)|Boong], Neelakasham Pachakadal Chuvanna Bhoomi, ''Yaiskulgee Pakhang Angaoba, Manipur Express, Sanagi Tangbal, Amukta Ani and Inamma''.
Career
Bala Hijam made her debut at the age of 15 in Oken Amakcham's Tellangga Mamei, through the reference of the cinematographer of the movie Irom Maipak. She started shooting for her Hindi film debut Zindagi on the Rocks, but was left incomplete due to some issues. Her notable role after her first film was in Romi Meitei's Khangdreda Nongdamba, where she played a supporting role alongside Kamala Saikhom. Panthungee Wangmada, directed by Yoimayai Mongsaba and produced under the banner Fly High Films was her first film in a leading role. Among her popular films, Yaiskulgee Pakhang Angaoba, Manipur Express, Meerang Mahum, Amukta Ani, Delhi Mellei, Sanagi Tangbal and Thabaton 2 may be mentioned. She played the role of a differently-abled lady in the movie Tamoyaigee Ebecha.In 2018, she appeared in an educational film Who Said Boys Can't Wear Makeup?. She also featured in the short film Lembi Leima directed by Mayank Pratap Singh in 2022. In 2024, she played the role of Mandakini in Boong, an internationally acclaimed film that had its world premiere at the 2024 [Toronto International Film Festival].
Accolades
Bala Hijam was honoured with different titles at several film awards and festivals.| Award | Category | Film | |
| 5th RJ Film Vision Special Award 2011 | Special Jury Award | ||
| 8th Manipur State Film Festival 2013 | Best Actress | Yaiskulgee Pakhang Angaoba | |
| 11th Manipur State Film Awards 2018 | Best Actor in a Supporting Role - Female | Chinglen Sana | |
| 9th MANIFA 2020 | Best Actor in a Leading Role - Female | Inamma | |
| 1st Northeast India International Film Festival 2022, Dimapur | Best Actress | Lembi Leima | |
| Sitannavasal International Film Festival 2022 | Best Actress | Lembi Leima | |
| Thilsri International Film Festival 2023, Chennai | Best Actress | Lembi Leima | |
| Golden Fern Films Award 2023 | Best Actress | Lembi Leima | |
| 4th Empty Space International Short Film Festival 2024 | Best Actress | Lembi Leima |