Srinagar, Sep 09: Joint Director Information Syed Shahnawaz Bhukari on Wednesday said the administration is making sustained efforts to revive Kashmir’s cinematic legacy, with the floating cinema on Dal Lake emerging as a major crowd-puller during the ongoing film festival.
“The kind of festivity we have witnessed in the city over the last two to three days is there for everyone to see. From movie screenings to expert sessions at SKICC, and the floating cinema, the response has been overwhelming,” Joint Director Information Syed Shahnawaz Bhukari told reporters as per Kashmir Convener.
Recalling the Valley’s glorious past, the Joint Director said, “This is an effort to revive the old tradition when Bollywood’s biggest movies were shot in Kashmir and on Dal Lake. We want to instil confidence among filmmakers that they can come and shoot their films here without any hesitation.”
Joint Director stressed that the administration is keen to fully tap the film tourism potential of the region. “Jammu and Kashmir is a natural choice for Bollywood. We want to take this forward and make it a regular feature. Inshallah, our intention is to organise such a film festival every year,” he said.
On the response to the floating cinema, the Joint Director said, “You must have seen it yourself—all the shikaras around were full. People came and enjoyed the experience. We will work with the tourism department to make it even better in the next edition.”
Syed Shahnawaz Bhukari informed that more than 360 delegates have already arrived for the festival, with many visiting Gulmarg and Pahalgam. “Some big names are expected tomorrow as well. We hope this will encourage the local community to interact with leading producers and directors, creating opportunities for our immensely talented youth,” he said.
When asked about veteran filmmaker CP Shivdasani, who directed the iconic Sholay, the Joint Director said, “The presence of such stalwarts is a source of inspiration for our new generation. I am hopeful that, Inshallah, one day we will see big stars emerging from Jammu and Kashmir.”
Highlighting the region’s winter shooting potential, he added, “Gulmarg continues to be a benchmark. We are committed to continuing this effort and ensuring that the local community, especially film artists and youth, benefit from these initiatives.”
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