Srinagar-born Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, a celebrated actor, theatre practitioner, TV producer, and filmmaker, has been honored with the prestigious Jammu and Kashmir Government Award (2025) for his outstanding contributions to the field of performing arts, particularly theatre.
A postgraduate from Kashmir University in 1982, Mushtaaque began his journey in acting as a child artist in 1974. Over the years, he transitioned into professional acting and directing, dedicating his life to the preservation and promotion of performing arts and theatre. For over four decades, he has championed the engagement of younger generations in nation-building activities while safeguarding indigenous cultural nuances.
His remarkable efforts have earned him widespread recognition from government and non-government organizations as well as the public and private sectors. With over 20 prominent awards to his name, including the **Lifetime Achievement Award** presented by J&K’s Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha in 2022, Mushtaaque has left an indelible mark in the field of theatre and filmmaking.
A pioneer in the region, he was the first filmmaker from Kashmir to produce and direct documentaries for UGC’s countrywide classroom through Kashmir University’s AVRC. As chairman of *ACT – For A Better Tomorrow* (formerly *Actors’ Creative Theatre*), established in 1976, Mushtaaque has spearheaded numerous initiatives in art, culture, film, and literature.
Over three and a half decades, he has produced and directed over 400 episodes of 40+ TV serials, 10+ telefilms, 50+ documentary films, and several short films and music albums. His collaborations with entities like Doordarshan Kashir, Doordarshan Urdu, J&K Tourism, and Kashmir University have solidified his reputation as a cultural icon, not just in Kashmir but across India.
Mushtaaque is also the founder and director of the *Kashmir World Film Festival* (KWFF), successfully organizing four editions of the event. Additionally, he has conducted numerous film festivals, theatre festivals, seminars, and interactions, engaging thousands of art enthusiasts.
In 2024, he served on the international jury of the Nepal Cultural International Film Festival (NCIFF) in Kathmandu, further showcasing his global influence.
