J&K hosts over 350 film shoots in five years: LG Sinha

Srinagar, Mar 23: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said that over 350 films and web series have been shot in Jammu and Kashmir over the past five years. He attributed this surge in film productions to the region’s peaceful environment and the new film policy introduced by the administration.
Inaugurating the ‘Tawi Filmotsav’ film festival, organized by the J&K Cine Association at Abhinav Theatre in Jammu, Sinha highlighted the region’s return to filmmaking prominence, crediting the peace and development initiatives that have made J&K an attractive destination for Hindi, regional, and international film shoots.
During his address, the Lieutenant Governor extended his congratulations to the festival organizers, filmmakers, and everyone involved in promoting local talent through the short film festival. “Today, I am proud that Jammu and Kashmir has found its place in the film industry. Our efforts in the last five years to foster peace and development have made J&K a more attractive destination for film shoots from across the globe,” Sinha said.
Speaking to reporters, he emphasized that the event would offer a significant platform for local artists to showcase their talents and pursue their creative ambitions. “This festival is a crucial step towards nurturing Jammu and Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage while also creating opportunities for aspiring filmmakers,” he added.
Sinha also highlighted the role of technological advancements in enabling local filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals to make their mark. He underscored that cinema is not only an entertainment medium but also a powerful tool for social change. “Cinema is an effective medium of education and a potent agent for social transformation. I want our local talent to maintain a balance between entertainment and social responsibility and use this medium for the benefit of society,” he said.
Through initiatives like the Tawi Film Utsav, the government aims to promote Jammu and Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural heritage, while also raising awareness of pressing issues like drug abuse. “I want our youth to nurture their creativity to help eliminate social evils such as drug addiction and use their talents to bring about positive change in society. Together, we can help ensure a dignified life for all,” Sinha said.
“The balance between entertainment and social responsibility is one of the biggest challenges we face in this festival, but it’s also one of its most important objectives,” he added.
Sinha emphasized the transformative power of creativity, stating, “Creativity should not only be a means of fulfilling personal dreams but also a vehicle for social change. Over the past four years, I have witnessed the deep impact of various forms of art on society, but cinema’s influence is unparalleled. It has played a critical role in raising awareness about social issues.”
Under the new film policy, Jammu and Kashmir has become a preferred filming destination, offering world-class facilities and support to meet modern filmmaking needs. “This policy has transformed the region into a global hub for cinema,” Sinha remarked. “I encourage young filmmakers and artists to use their creativity not just for personal fulfillment but to drive meaningful change in society.”
Reflecting on his experiences, Sinha noted that over the last four years, he has attended more than 100 cultural and artistic events, seeing firsthand how creativity has a profound impact on people’s lives.
Assuring continued government support for the film industry, Sinha stressed that the ongoing peace and stability in the region are pivotal to its economic and cultural growth. “The administration is committed to strengthening this progress and making Jammu and Kashmir a leading global filming destination,” he concluded.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor released a brochure of ‘Tawi Filmotsva’. He also commended the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) for its constant efforts to promote artistic and cultural heritage of Jammu Kashmir.
Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu; Nitish Rajora, Director Information; Harvinder Kour, Secretary JKAACL; Dharminder Kohli, President, J&K Cine Association; senior officials, renowned artists, film-makers, members of J&K Cine Association and prominent citizens from different walks of life were present.