Srinagar, Sep 09: Spanish filmmaker and producer Anna Saura Ramon on Wednesday made a strong pitch for Kashmir to serve as a bridge for deeper cinematic ties between India and Spain, as she attended the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) here.
Speaking to reporters on the third day of the festival at SKICC, Saura as per Kashmir Convener said the Valley’s stunning landscapes, lakes, natural light and hospitality made it an attractive destination for international productions.
“This is my first visit to Kashmir and India. I hope to come again,” she said, describing her experience of the region so far as positive.
Saura, known for her documentary The Kid in the Photo, said she had already shared photographs of Kashmir with a friend, who suggested the Valley could be explored as a potential location for filmmaking.
The filmmaker said differences between the Indian and Spanish film industries should not come in the way of greater artistic collaboration, including joint productions and exchange of talent. “I think we can push for better relationships between India and Spain,” she said, adding that language need not be a barrier.
She called for greater promotion of the Valley as a filming destination and said there was “considerable scope” for Indian actors to feature in future India-Spain co-productions.
Saura expressed confidence that international studios could eventually bring productions to Kashmir, provided there was greater cooperation between governments and the film industry.
Describing IFFJK as an “important initiative,” she said the festival exposed local audiences to world cinema while creating opportunities for filmmakers to connect. “It is important for everyone,” she said, expressing hope that the event would continue and grow in the coming years.
The four-day IFFJK, being held in Srinagar from September 7 to 10, has brought together filmmakers and cinema professionals from India and abroad, with the Union Territory administration keen to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a filming destination while fostering international cinematic collaboration.
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