In the picturesque valley of Kashmir, a cinematic renaissance has blossomed, infusing hearts with joy and enthusiasm following the abrogation of Article 370. This marked a triumphant return to the silver screen after decades of deprivation, as the people once again savored the magic of cinema.
In September 2022, a historic event unfolded as the first multiplex, INOX, was inaugurated in Srinagar. Amidst this momentous occasion, a small incident unfolded that encapsulated the transformation underway in the valley.
Shakir Majeed Bhat, a high school student, remembered how he skipped classes to attend the grand opening of INOX, witnessing the screening of Amir Khan’s “Lal Singh Chadda.” “I’d never set foot in a cinema before. My movie experiences were confined to TVs and phones,” he exclaimed with wide-eyed excitement. His cinema outing was a revelation, with the intermission spent happily in the lobby, savoring popcorn and a soft drink, capturing moments of pure happiness.
This journey to cinematic revival was far from easy. In the late 1980s, Kashmir boasted several independent theatres that brought entertainment and delight to locals. However, the eruption of armed conflict led to their closure, plunging the valley into a period of darkness and unrest.
Numerous attempts were made to reopen cinemas, but terrorist attacks and violence thwarted progress. Fear kept the population away, leading the once-vibrant theatres into disrepair. Yet, with the scrapping of Article 370, winds of change swept through the valley. The new administration, led by LG Manoj Sinha, was resolute in resurrecting cinema’s glory.
A fresh film policy and modern infrastructure were introduced, once again making the region a favoured filming destination. “The Union Territory has reclaimed its cinematic heritage, ushering in a golden era of filmmaking,” declared LG Manoj Sinha proudly at INOX’s opening.
As Bollywood productions returned, enthusiasm surged. The release of Shah Rukh Khan’s “Pathaan” became a momentous occasion. INOX was packed, and the positive response overwhelmed the staff. With screenings of “Openhimmer” and “Pathaan,” the theatres were perpetually full, hosting six shows daily. Over 15,000 people had already experienced movies on the big screen, with the numbers still rising.
Visitors flocked from distant lands, drawn not only by Kashmir’s beauty but also by the joy of witnessing their favourite stars on the grand screen. Fear, once a gripping force, receded, replaced by hope and security.
With each successful screening, the locals rekindled their belief in a brighter future. Cinema acted as a unifying force, bringing diverse people together to share moments of laughter, tears, and exhilaration.
Cinema’s impact extended beyond entertainment. Local youth, exposed to the big screen for the first time, expanded their dreams. Inspired by cinema, they delved into storytelling, acting, and filmmaking.
INOX’s success enticed more investors. Additional theatres and entertainment complexes were planned, and the dream of a film city materialized. Filmmakers’ influx bolstered the local economy.
As time marched on, Kashmir transformed into a film industry hub. The link between Bollywood and Kashmir was rekindled, with filmmakers embracing the region’s landscapes and culture.
Cinema unveiled a different Kashmir to the world—a land of heritage and hospitality—shattering long-held stereotypes.
Cinema’s revival post Article 370’s abrogation testified to Kashmiris’ resilience. It exemplified the power of art to heal wounds and bridge divisions. As the reel of hope continued to roll, Kashmir’s future sparkled with promise, powered by cinema’s magic, bringing unity, joy, and a brighter tomorrow.
