Cinema has potential of forging unity: Gogoi

Cinema has the potential of forging unity and it reflects the aims and aspirations of diverse communities transcending all boundaries, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today said.
Speaking at the concluding function of the 6th State Film Award Festival here, Gogoi said cinema can play a cohesive role in unifying a nation and can tame divisive forces through creative language.
He said films have great potential of reflecting the aims and aspirations of divergent communities in a pluralistic society like India, which can also facilitate growth.
Films as an integral part of art and culture has always been a priority area for the state government and it has been taking various steps for promotion of this creative art, Gogoi said.

In sync with the programme, the Chief Minister also handed over the Pramatesh Barua Life Time Achievement Award to the doyen of Assamese film Ramen Baruah acknowledging his contribution to Assamese Films.
As a part of the Festival, awards were given to film personalities in 29 different disciplines recognising their cinematic excellence.
State agriculture minister Rakibul Hussain, cultural affairs minister Bismita Gogoi, Bollywood film personality and Rajya Sabha MP Raj Babbar, Chief Secretary V K Pipersenia, film personalities of the state, top officials of the government and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.