Kashmir As A Creative, Cultural Powerhouse Ready To Tell Its Own Stories: Omar Abdullah
The festival signals J&K’s readiness to narrate its own stories: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday hailed the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) as a defining moment in the region’s cinematic journey, calling Kashmir not just a filming destination but a “creative sanctuary” for global storytellers.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony at a lakeside convention centre here, he said the festival signals J&K’s readiness to narrate its own stories. With filmmakers from over 40 countries and more than 130 films being screened, Abdullah described the event as a revival of Kashmir’s historic romance with cinema, recalling classics like Kashmir Ki Kali, Bobby, Kabhi Kabhie and Jab Tak Hai Jaan that shaped its iconic image.
He emphasised that Kashmir’s appeal lies not only in its landscapes but in its culture, rooted in Kashmiriyat — the shared cultural consciousness and social ethos of Kashmir —, music, crafts and oral traditions — “the rhythmic strains of Santoor and Rabab echoing across our valleys.”
Abdullah urged filmmakers to look beyond mountains and engage with local artisans, musicians and communities. He outlined the government’s push for a modern filmmaking ecosystem through single-window clearances, financial incentives, local talent development, and investments in studios, post-production facilities and film education. Calling the festival a “declaration of intent,” he told young attendees, “Your stories matter. Your voices matter.”
Filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra described his participation as an emotional homecoming, recalling his journey from Amira Kadal, an uptown Srinagar area, to the film industry and urging Kashmiri youth to believe in their talent. “Don’t let yourself down. I see such talent here,” he said, adding that the festival would open doors for global filmmakers and ensure Kashmir’s own stories are told.
Actor Fatima Sana Shaikh expressed joy at being part of the inaugural edition, saying cultural events like IFFJK bring people together. Calling Kashmir “home,” she voiced confidence that the region could continue hosting international festivals and noted that film shoots have long been part of its creative landscape.
The four-day festival, held from September 7 to 10, marks a significant cultural milestone — a renewed cinematic embrace between Kashmir and the world.