‘Before Switzerland, films were made in Kashmir’: Omar Abdullah hopes festival brings shoots back

SRINAGAR - Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the inaugural edition of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) on Monday, declaring it a new chapter in the region’s longstanding connection with cinema. The CM reminded filmmakers nationwide that Kashmir had been a favored location for film production long before Switzerland and other global spots gained popularity. "We would like that trend to start again," Omar declared.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra, a filmmaker who hails from Srinagar and spent his formative years there, expressed that the IFFJK was an emotional homecoming for him. He encouraged young and aspiring Kashmiri filmmakers to "show the world what you can do."

Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh, whose mother originates from Kashmir, returned to the Valley after many years, recalling fond childhood memories. The four-day festival, taking place from September 7-10, will showcase over 130 movies from 30 countries. An esteemed jury, including Santosh Sivan, Dorothee Wenner, Keiko Bang, and Himansu Sekhar Khatua, will oversee the event.