It's Not My Choice

It's Not My Choice (Manipuri: Eina Khankhiba Natte) is a 2015 Manipuri film written and directed by Priyakanta Laishram and produced by Harendra Laishram under the banner of Priyakanta Productions. Starring Bishesh Huirem, Ithoi Oinam, and Chakpram Idhou, the film tells the story of a young transgender Sanathoi who is deprived of her basic rights. The film was released on 1 September 2015, in Imphal at the Regional Institute Of Medical Sciences and screened at 25 film festivals. The film is the first Indian short film to be adapted in Thai and the first short film from Northeast India to surpass 1 lakh views and 1 million views on YouTube.

Development
In an interview with Scroll.in, Priyakanta Laishram stated that he developed the idea for the film during his senior secondary education in Chandigarh, while meeting his sister's transgender friends and a friend shunned for being effeminate. He believed his films could express his authentic self and address societal taboo topics.

Filming
In a two-day schedule, principal photography for the film began in Imphal on 8 August 2015, and concluded on 9 August 2015.

On Gaylaxy, Laishram stated that the entire film was shot in 2015 during the riots, curfews, mass processions, and strikes over the Inner Line Permit in Manipur.

Post production and release
Balli Ningthoujam composed the film's music, while Priyakanta Laishram handled the editing. On 1 September 2015, the film was premiered at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences in Imphal. Later, it was screened at Rajabhat University, Delhi University, Punjab University, and Mumbai University.

The film became the first from Northeast India to receive more than one million views after it was made available for online streaming on YouTube on 15 January 2017.

Adaptation
In 2024, the film has become the first Indian film to be adapted into Thai language.

Reception
Upon release, the film received favorable reviews, with reviewers applauding the performances, writing, and direction in particular. The Sangai Express wrote, "It's Not My Choice triumphs in every aspect".

Signpost News wrote, "The 14-minute film does more in its brief running time than any other Manipuri feature film in its genre that is two or three hours long."

E-pao wrote, "A project like this comes full circle with the clear passion behind it. Definitely, a step towards more progressive Manipuri queer cinema."

Cast

 * Bishesh Huirem
 * Ithoi Oinam
 * Chakpram Idhou
 * Sophia Sapam