Srinagar, Sep 09: Veteran filmmaker Ramesh Sippy on Wednesday said Kashmir is poised for a cinematic revival, with filmmakers likely to return to the Valley following a period of instability that had kept the industry away for years.
Speaking on the sidelines of International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK), the director of Sholay, Shaan, and Saagar recalled his first visit to the region in 1964 and the subsequent disruption that made shooting difficult. “In between, there were problems, so we couldn’t come. But now it has reopened, everything is fine,” he told reporters as per Kashmir Convener.
Director Sippy expressed hope that the Valley would once again attract both tourists and filmmakers, pointing to government support as a key factor.
“I hope people will come, tourists will come, filmmakers will also come to shoot films just like they used to. There is also encouragement from the government,” he said.
When asked if he planned to shoot in Kashmir, Sippy said he was exploring the possibility. “Right now we have come, observed everything and hope we will do it soon,” he said.
The filmmaker, who is attending the IFFJK, said he was keen to watch films by emerging directors and saw the festival as a platform for young talent.
He also defended contemporary Indian cinema against criticism of creative decline, citing Imtiaz Ali’s recent work as an example. “Today’s filmmakers are doing their job, appreciate what they are doing, and encourage people who want to make such kinds of films,” he said.
The IFFJK, which has brought together film professionals from India and abroad, is part of a broader push to position Jammu and Kashmir as a production hub.
Meanwhile, organisers say the festival aims to create opportunities for local filmmakers while showcasing the Valley’s landscapes and cultural heritage to the industry.
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