Srinagar, Sept 7: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said Kashmir is not merely a location for film shooting but a “creative sanctuary” and a home for storytellers from across the world, as he described the region’s first international film festival as a new chapter in its long association with cinema.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) at SKICC as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), CM Omar welcomed filmmakers, artists and delegates from across the world and said the festival sends out a clear message that Jammu and Kashmir is ready to tell its own stories to the world.
With filmmakers from more than 40 countries participating and over 130 films being screened, the four-day festival marks a new chapter in the longstanding relationship between Jammu and Kashmir and the silver screen, he said.
Describing Kashmir as “paradise on earth”, Abdullah said the region has always held a special place in the world of cinema, not only because of its spectacular natural beauty but also because its landscapes can become an integral part of a story.
Referring to the historic association between Kashmir and Indian cinema, the chief minister said films such as Kashmir Ki Kali, Bobby, Kabhi Kabhie and Jab Tak Hai Jaan* have showcased the Valley’s beauty on the silver screen.
“The green valleys of spring, the golden hues of autumn and the white landscape of winter have always inspired filmmakers to explore different shades of human emotions,” he said.
Abdullah, however, said Kashmir’s appeal goes beyond its mountains and scenic landscapes, with its culture, traditions, people, warmth, hospitality and artistic heritage forming an equally important part of its identity.
Music, poetry, handicrafts and oral traditions have kept the region’s stories alive for centuries, he said.
Urging filmmakers shooting in Jammu and Kashmir to look beyond its mountains, Abdullah encouraged them to explore stories rooted in local communities, artisans, musicians and the streets of its cities and towns.
“Mere memories of the past cannot build a sustainable film industry. We need a modern and filmmaker-friendly ecosystem,” he said.
The chief minister said the government has introduced a single-window system for filmmakers and is also establishing a dedicated online portal for filming-related permissions and security coordination.
He said financial incentives are also being provided to filmmakers, with additional incentives proposed for productions that employ local artists, technicians and crew members.
The government, he said, aims to build a strong local talent pool comprising cinematographers, line producers, sound engineers, actors and other professionals associated with filmmaking.
Work is also underway to establish modern post-production facilities, equipment hubs, film studios and institutions for film education in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah said, adding that the objective is to develop cinema as a full-fledged industry rather than merely a form of entertainment.
Calling IFFJK an “announcement of intent”, the chief minister said the four-day festival would provide young people with an opportunity to learn from filmmakers and cinema professionals from across the world.
Addressing the youth, Abdullah said, “Your stories matter, your voice matters, the world is listening to you, and now the global screen is here in your own home.”
He also urged domestic and international delegates to convey to fellow filmmakers that Jammu and Kashmir is open, safe, vibrant and ready to welcome film crews.(KNS)
