Suhail Khan
Srinagar, Sept 8: Bollywood playback singer Sunidhi Chauhan, who is in the Valley for the International Film Festival, said Tuesday that she has “fallen in love once again” with Kashmir — this time for real, after years of seeing it only on screen.
“I can’t tell you how happy I am, because it was my childhood dream to come to Kashmir. In all these years, I’ve been to so many places, but never got a chance to come here. But this time, finally, I’m here and I feel like I’m in heaven,” Chauhan told reporters on the second day of the festival.
The singer, known for hits like Mehboob Mere and Beedi Jalaile, said she was overwhelmed by the beauty of the valley and the warmth of its people. “I feel like, is there a place like this? My eyes are wide open. The people here, the love they have for each other, the food here, the peace here — I mean, I don’t feel like leaving,” she said.
Chauhan, who had earlier only experienced Kashmir through films, said she now hopes to bring her concert to the region. “I really hope I get a chance to bring my concert here. Because I’ve fallen in love once again. Earlier, I fell in love with Kashmir only by looking at the screen. And now, staying here, I feel like I want to do my bit to all the people of Kashmir here,” she added.
Calling the film festival a “great start”, Chauhan said such platforms are crucial for promoting independent and lesser-known films. “There are some films that don’t get much recognition or are made with a lot of effort, but no one knows what will happen to them. So, films like that are being shown here. People with an open mind are coming and watching the movies. Basically, film lovers are coming to watch the movies and I think it’s a great start,” she said.
She also encouraged the youth of Kashmir to make the most of such opportunities. “When there are festivals like this, and when the youth comes and sees the movies, and they are interested in direction, acting, or anything, singing — these are the platforms where people learn a lot. Or if they have any confusion about something, they come here and clear it. Because there is so much to explore,” she said.
The singer urged the audience to use social media responsibly to promote good cinema. “Promote good films. Social media is very important for everyone. So, use it properly. Spread it. If you like something, numbers don’t matter. Just let the films spread. Let it reach as many people as possible. And if good films are liked, more good films will be made. And people’s minds will also open up,” she added.
On Kashmir as a filming destination, Chauhan said the valley has always attracted filmmakers and tourists alike. “Whether it’s tourism or making films in Kashmir, it’s been happening for many years. People are eager to come to Kashmir. And here, in any frame, wherever you shoot in Kashmir, it feels as if you haven’t seen anywhere else,” she said.
She expressed hope that the film festival would bring more attention to the region. “So, because of the film festival, it will get more promotion. And more people will get to know. Because our new generation, if they don’t know what treasure is here, then it’s a very good opportunity for them to know Kashmir. And to spend time in these valleys, in this beautiful environment,” Chauhan said.
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