Nine Hills One Valley review: An emotional film on politics of Manipur

In an increasingly fractured world where divisions keep cropping up, Haobam Paban Kumar's Nine Hills One Valley hits close to home.

The film captures a multitude of cultures, thoughts and ideologies and its docu-feature narrative style possesses a sweeping realism that lends it heft and emotional power. 

The story is centred on a member of the Tangkhul ethnic group named Anam Ahum as he travels from the hills of Manipur to the city of Imphal to bid farewell to his daughter, who is leaving for Delhi.

Over the course of his journey, he encounters ideological faultlines and hears accounts of violence that occurred over years and traumatic memories. The title of the film is derived from a geographical description of Manipur. While the name of the state brings to mind a verdant tranquil region, the reality is far more complex. 

The filmmaker, a multiple National award winner, is in fine form as he captures the essence of many memories and experiences associated with conflict. Social, ethnic and political opinions make their way to the viewer, without appearing manufactured. There is something immediately real and arresting about these conversations, which flow without editorialization.

Yet, Nine Hills One Valley has no clear answers. The film does not seek to enlighten or offer a solution. It poses a question: how do we go about this? Given the complexity of the people, their painful memories and the struggles of a new generation looking ahead while being haunted by the past, it is not easy. 

Technically, the feature stands out. The cinematography keeps you engrossed in the journey, capturing some moving expressions. Ranjan Palit and Irom Maipak deserve praise for keeping the attention focused on the speakers. The visuals are a part of the narrative process. 

The film belongs to the valleys of Manipur and its people. It is a reminder of the many dimensions of life that often exist in conflict-ridden spaces. Development has its flaws. So does the past. Moving on does have its risks, and so does hanging on to old wounds. Despite having no clear answers, Nine Hills One Valley is an experiential film about a people and their ongoing process of finding peace. 

Nine Hills One Valley was screened virtually from 25 to 27 February at the 22nd MAMI Mumbai Film Festival.