Bandipora : With an aim to break barriers and carve her own path in the competitive world of Indian cinema, Mateena Rajput the rising star from North Kashmir’s Baramulla district is set to ignite the silver screen of Bollywood With her highly anticipated debut film “Welcome to Kashmir”.
Hailing from the Sopore district, Mateena’s captivating presence and unwavering dedication to empowering women are poised to steal hearts and captivate audiences nationwide.
Prior to her foray into Bollywood, Mateena had already garnered experience in the Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi film industries.
In her conversation with Rising Kashmir, she revealed that her role in the film portrays a courageous young woman dedicated to empowering and fighting for the justice of her fellow women.
Mateena’s character embarks on a mission to travel to colleges and schools across the nation, inspiring girls through her speeches and imparting them with invaluable safety advice. Her unwavering belief in the resilience of women is contrasted with her vulnerability to falling victim to society’s pitfalls.
Proud of her Kashmiri heritage, Mateena said that she has always represented Kashmir on various platforms throughout her career.
Viewing Kashmir through the lens of positivity, Mateena said she passionately expressed her admiration for the region’s immense beauty.
While acknowledging the negative portrayals of Kashmir in Bollywood films, particularly in relation to promoting terrorism, Mateena said she remains dedicated to showcasing the positive aspects of her homeland.
“As a Kashmiri artist, I am well aware of the limitations I face and constantly carry the spirit of my motherland with me. Others may have their own preferences,” She added.
“Welcome to Kashmir” tackles several significant issues in its narrative, including the involvement of youth in drug abuse and the empowerment of women. Moreover, the film seeks to highlight the positive elements of tourism and hospitality, painting an authentic picture of Kashmir.
Mateena said that what sets “Welcome to Kashmir” apart from other Bollywood productions is that it is a unique Hindi feature film produced and directed by Kashmiris themselves. For the filmmaker behind this passion project, hailing from Sopore, it is a dream come true.
Anticipation for the film’s release on May 26 is steadily growing, not just in Kashmir but across India. Audiences eagerly await the unveiling of a cinematic experience that will immerse them in the enchanting world of Kashmir, as crafted by its own people.
