After Three Decades, Cinema Returns to Baramulla as LG inaugurates Theatres in Baramulla, Handwara

Baramulla, July 15: In a significant development following the abrogation of Article 370, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Saturday inaugurated the long-awaited Multipurpose Cinema Halls in Baramulla and Handwara, marking a historic milestone for the valley.

The reopening of cinemas in Baramulla comes after a gap of more than three decades, signifying a major leap in the cultural and entertainment landscape of the area.

The Lt. Governor, who had previously revived the cinema culture by inaugurating cinema halls in Shopian and Pulwama last year, expressed his joy at witnessing the return of cinema to Baramulla. He also highlighted the symbolic significance of the movie theaters as a reflection of the growing aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Under a Public-Private Partnership model, the newly established Multipurpose Cinema Halls aim to provide recreational facilities to the residents, revive the vibrant cinema culture, and create a space for the young generation to engage in discussions, seminars, and rejuvenation. Additionally, both locations will house a cafe, offer virtual reality experiences, and provide conference and seminar facilities for the youth.

During the inauguration event, the Lt. Governor also unveiled several other development projects for the district of Baramulla. He commended the efforts of the District Administration, members of PRIs, and civil society in driving the region forward on the path of peace and development. He expressed his belief that Baramulla is transitioning from being an aspirational district to an inspirational district, showcasing remarkable socio-economic progress in recent years.

Emphasizing the commitment of the Jammu and Kashmir administration to socio-economic empowerment for all, the Lt. Governor emphasized that marginalized sections of society have the first right to government resources. He reiterated the government's vision of "Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas" (Together with all, Development for all), aiming to transform the lives of underprivileged individuals. The Lt. Governor further stated that initiatives such as providing land to the landless and building pucca houses under the PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana) will unleash the full potential of thousands of families and fulfill their basic needs.

Paying tribute to Maqbool Sherwani, a prominent figure from Baramulla, the Lt. Governor called upon all sections of society to make their significant contributions to the future journey of a new and aspirational Jammu and Kashmir towards a developed state. He also addressed the issue of cronyism and unethical practices that have persisted in the region for several decades, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to dismantle such practices and take stringent action against corruption.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Safina Baig, Chairperson of the District Development Council in Baramulla, praised the continuous efforts of the Lt. Governor-led administration in promoting the welfare and empowerment of the youth through initiatives like Mission Youth.

Rahul Nehra, Director of Jadooz Media, shared that the blockbuster Bollywood movie 'Pathaan,' starring Shahrukh Khan, will be showcased as the first screening in the newly inaugurated cinemas, adding to the excitement and anticipation among the locals

Mission Youth, with its aim to establish Multipurpose Cinema Halls across the Union Territory, has already initiated pilot projects in districts such as Pulwama, Shopian, Udhampur, Bandipora, Kupwara, Doda, and Baramulla.

Alongside the cinema halls, the Lt. Governor inaugurated other development projects worth Rs 4 crore in Baramulla, including a nine-roomed three-storey building at HSS Kunzer, an auditorium at HSS Sultanpora, and water supply schemes under the Jal Jeevan Mission at Achabal Doabagh, Vadderabad, Panzalla, and WSS Dolipora Fresthar.

The event witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries such as Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, CEO of Mission Youth; Sh. Vivek Gupta, DIG; Dr. Syed Sehrish Asgar, Deputy Commissioner of Baramulla, senior officials from the police, civil administration, and security forces, members of the PRIs, office bearers of Jadooz Media, and prominent citizens from all walks of life.

The reopening of cinemas in Baramulla and Handwara marks a significant step towards enhancing entertainment opportunities and fostering socio-cultural development in the region, bringing joy to the people and showcasing the growth and progress of Jammu and Kashmir.