Says J&K, Cinema cannot be seen separately
Unveils J&K Film Policy 2024
J&K Film Screening series to foster idea exchange & cine-club culture
Launches Single Window portal for Film Shooting permissions & subsidies
DIPR hosts first-ever J&K Film Conclave
Srinagar, Aug 01: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday emphasized the inseparable bond between Jammu and Kashmir and cinema, asserting that the region has always been a cultural organism for filmmakers.
Addressing the J&K Film Conclave at Sheri Kashmir International Conference Centre, Sinha highlighted the ongoing efforts to revive and reconnect J&K with the culture of cinema and theatre over the past five years.
“Whenever we talk about cinema in Jammu and Kashmir, the first thing that comes to my mind is that Jammu and Kashmir and cinema cannot be seen separately. Both are one and the same,” Sinha said. He acknowledged the emotional connection filmmakers like Raj Kapoor and Yash Chopra had with J&K, which transcended beyond a mere shooting destination.
In his address, the Lt Governor discussed the implementation of the 2021 film policy and introduced the new J&K Film Policy 2024. He inaugurated several initiatives including a single-window portal for film shooting permissions and subsidies, the J&K Film Screening Series, and the Frames of Transformation Photography competition. He also felicitated the winners of the Naya Jammu Kashmir Short Film Making Competition.
“The film-friendly and pragmatic J&K Film Policy will ensure that heaven on earth is truly a heaven for filmmakers. We will provide high-impact infrastructure, support in sourcing locations, a large pool of professionals, and financial incentives to make filming more attractive in J&K,” the Lt Governor stated. He emphasized the policy’s added incentives for films in local languages, promoting regional cinema, and generating employment for the local population.
Sinha highlighted the significance of the new initiatives, stating they will have a strong multiplier effect in developing J&K into a global film production hub. The single-window portal will streamline the process of applying for shooting permissions and subsidies, making it efficient and user-friendly.
Bollywood filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar praised the UT Administration’s progressive film policy and initiatives, recognizing their potential to create a vibrant film ecosystem in J&K. The conclave serves as a platform for collaboration, idea exchange, and showcasing talent, aiming to build a sustainable and thriving film industry in the region.
The event featured workshops on filmmaking, panel discussions with film personalities like Rahhat Kazmi, Paragg Mehta, and Mir Sarwar, and award-winning films from the Naya Jammu Kashmir Short Film Making Competition. The premiere screening of “Country of Blind” and cultural performances by local artists added to the vibrant atmosphere.
Key attendees included Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Ms. Rehana Batul, Secretary, Information; Sh Jatin Kishore, Director Information; senior officials, winners, participants of the Short Film-Making Competition, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) hosted a vibrant and engaging first ever Jammu and Kashmir Film Conclave at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Center (SKICC) situated at the banks of world famous Dal Lake.
Workshops on filmmaking were also organised during the conclave with discussions ranging from the global appeal of local narratives to practical insights for aspiring actors and filmmakers.
Highlighting the artistic diversity of the region, the conclave featured screenings of impactful short films such as “Melting Stones,” “I am Valmiki,” and “Unveiling Strength: The Women Athletes of Kashmir.” Additionally, audiences were treated to the premiere screening of “Country of Blind,” an internationally acclaimed film by director Rahhat Kazmi, based on H.G. Wells’ classic story “The Country of the Blind.” This marked its first-ever screening in India, further underscoring the conclave’s commitment to showcasing cutting-edge cinema.
Joint Director Information (Hqrs), Vivek Puri; Joint Director Information Kashmir, Mohammad Aslam; Deputy Director Information (AV/PR), Deepak Dubey; Deputy Director Information (C), Sunil Kumar; Deputy Director Information Kashmir (PR), Ahsan-ul-Haq Chisthi, senior officers and other concerned were also present on the occasion.
