JAMMU, June 18: In a landmark initiative to position Jammu and Kashmir as a premier global tourism and filmmaking destination, the Union Territory is all set to host the first-ever International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) from September 7 to 11, bringing together Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, senior government functionaries and celebrated film personalities from India and abroad.
Official sources told KNC that the five-day international event is being organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Government in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). The festival is expected to witness participation from prominent figures representing Bollywood, Hollywood, Tollywood and several other national and international film industries.
One of the major highlights of the festival will be the open-air screening of selected films on the picturesque Dal Lake in Srinagar. Audiences will have the rare opportunity to enjoy cinematic presentations while seated in traditional shikaras, offering a unique blend of culture, cinema and Kashmir’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Sources said that several renowned film stars, directors, producers and industry experts are expected to remain present throughout the festival, ensuring high-profile participation and international visibility for the event. The Government is also planning to invite Chief Ministers and senior Ministers from neighbouring States to strengthen cultural exchanges and promote tourism cooperation.
The main venue for the festival will be the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Srinagar, where both the inaugural and closing ceremonies will be held. Besides SKICC, film screenings and related events are proposed at Srinagar’s INOX Theatre and major tourist destinations including Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Bhaderwah and Patnitop.
Officials said the festival is being scheduled shortly after the conclusion of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and is expected to showcase Jammu and Kashmir’s peaceful environment, stability and growing tourism potential before a global audience. The initiative is also aimed at reviving the region’s historic reputation as one of the most preferred destinations for film shooting.
According to officials, the inaugural edition of IFFJK is expected to provide a significant boost to tourism, attract filmmakers and investors, generate employment opportunities and encourage local artists, filmmakers and youth associated with the creative sector.
The detailed programme, including the list of participating celebrities, film screenings, panel discussions and cultural events, is expected to be finalized by the organizing committee in consultation with NFDC in the coming weeks. (KNC)
