By Kukiland Express Staff Reporter
Songpi: April 22, 2026
Noted Kuki film director and YouTube content creator M. Paoneo Haokip passed away on Tuesday morning at Ideal Nursing Home, Churachandpur, following a prolonged illness, family sources said. He was 41. His demise has sent waves of grief across the Kuki cultural and media fraternity in Manipur.
Before the conflict broke out in Manipur, Haokip was the producer and director of an ISTV Kuki programme that broadcast news and other content in the Kuki language. The programme served Kuki-speaking audiences across the state, covering local news, cultural updates, interviews, and community discussions. Popular segments such as “Phone Ladeilhen” were widely followed, with episodes often made available on YouTube for broader access.
As a filmmaker, Haokip was known for works that highlighted Kuki cultural and religious narratives. Directing multiple films and visual albums, he frequently operated under the “Hai Priya” company banner. His notable projects, including “Kanao Lhingpineng” and “Pah Bang Pah Sah O,” resonated deeply with audiences for their storytelling rooted in community identity and values.
Through his films and digital content, Haokip became a significant voice in documenting and promoting Kuki language, tradition, and contemporary issues. Colleagues remember him as a dedicated creator who used visual media to connect the community, especially during times of limited regional representation in mainstream platforms.
The Kukiland Express team mourns the untimely loss of M. Paoneo Haokip and extends heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the wider creative community. His contributions to Kuki cinema and digital media will be remembered, and his vision will continue to inspire young storytellers across the region. May his soul rest in peace.
Copyright ®2026 Kukiland Express – All Rights Reserved.
