Jammu and Kashmir Aims to Revive Film Industry with International Film Festival

Srinagar, India Jul 24, 2026 ALN: Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday announced that Jammu and Kashmir is ready to rebuild its historic relationship with the film industry, asserting that the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) will help restore the Valley as a preferred filmmaking destination and position it once again on the global cinema map.

Launching the logo of the 1st International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026 at the Royal Springs Golf Course here, Omar recalled Kashmir’s deep association with Indian cinema, stating that there was a time when Bollywood and the Valley were inseparable. This relationship dates back to the early days of Indian cinema, when the stunning landscapes of Kashmir served as a backdrop for numerous films, making it a favorite location among filmmakers.

“There was a time when filmmaking in Bollywood and Kashmir was synonymous. No film was considered complete unless it had at least one sequence filmed in the Valley. If you couldn’t shoot an entire movie here, you at least shot one song,” he said. This nostalgia reflects a golden era in Indian cinema, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, when films like "Kashmir Ki Kali" and "Jab Tak Hai Jaan" showcased the breathtaking beauty of the region, effectively turning it into a character within the narrative of the films themselves.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the primary objective of the film festival is to revive that long-standing relationship and create a lasting platform for filmmakers. He articulated a vision for the future where Jammu and Kashmir could once again be a hub for film production, attracting not only Indian filmmakers but also international talent. The initiative aims to capitalize on the unique cultural and natural assets of the region, which have the potential to enrich storytelling in cinema.

“The idea behind this film festival is to rebuild the bond that existed between this part of the country and the film industry. I believe we are again at the cusp of restarting that relationship,” he said. This revival comes at a time when the region has seen significant changes in its socio-political landscape, and the government is keen to promote a message of peace and normalcy through cultural initiatives.

Stressing that scenic beauty alone is no longer enough to attract productions, Omar stated that the government is focused on making Jammu and Kashmir a filmmaker-friendly destination. This includes improving infrastructure, providing financial incentives, and streamlining the bureaucratic processes that filmmakers often face. “We need to make it easier and cheaper for filmmakers to come here and also develop local youngsters who can support filmmaking activity,” he said, highlighting the importance of nurturing local talent and creating job opportunities within the film industry.

Referring to noted filmmaker Muzaffar Ali’s long-delayed film Zooni, Omar expressed pleasure in learning that Ali’s son had completed the project. This film is particularly significant as it symbolizes the enduring connection between the region and its cinematic representation. “If what he has done is even a patch on what his father had started, I have no doubt it will present Kashmir in a way it hasn’t been presented in the last four decades,” he said. The completion of Zooni could serve as a catalyst for other filmmakers to explore the region, potentially leading to a resurgence in film production.

Expressing hope that the festival would become an annual event, Omar stated that the government wants it to evolve into a globally recognized platform. “This is the first, but we definitely don’t want it to be the only one. We want filmmakers from across the world to look forward to participating here,” he said. The ambition is clear: to establish Jammu and Kashmir as a key player in the international film circuit, fostering cultural exchange and collaboration.

The Chief Minister also welcomed the Government of India’s decision not to close Srinagar Airport during the proposed festival period, saying it had come as a major relief for organizers. The accessibility of the region is crucial for the success of the festival, as it enables participation from filmmakers, critics, and audiences from outside the region. “Thankfully, the Government of India changed its mind. That was a huge relief for us,” he said, underscoring the importance of logistical support in making the event a success.

Omar also thanked filmmakers Muzaffar Ali, Imtiaz Ali, and Sajid Ali for supporting the initiative, stating that their association would provide a significant boost to Jammu and Kashmir’s efforts to revive its film industry and promote the region as a premier filmmaking destination. The involvement of established filmmakers not only lends credibility to the festival but also provides mentorship opportunities for emerging filmmakers in the region.

The International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir is not just about showcasing films; it is also about creating a dialogue around the cinematic arts and the unique stories that the region has to offer. The festival aims to include a variety of genres and styles, ensuring a diverse range of films that reflect the multifaceted nature of storytelling. Workshops, panel discussions, and networking events are also planned, providing aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals with the chance to engage with established figures in the film world.

As the festival approaches, there are high expectations for what it could mean for the local economy as well. The film industry can be a significant driver of economic growth, creating jobs in various sectors, including hospitality, transportation, and local crafts. By attracting filmmakers and tourists alike, Jammu and Kashmir could see a revitalization of its economy, which has faced challenges in recent years due to political instability and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In conclusion, the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir represents a pivotal moment for the region. It embodies a commitment to reviving the film industry and re-establishing Jammu and Kashmir as a key location for filmmakers. The potential for cultural and economic revitalization is immense, and with the right support and infrastructure in place, the festival could pave the way for a new era of filmmaking in the Valley.