Srinagar, Sep 09: Spanish filmmaker and producer Anna Saura Ramon has described Kashmir as a potential international filmmaking hub, calling for greater cinematic cooperation between India and Spain.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the third day of the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) at SKICC, Srinagar, Saura said the valley’s landscapes, lakes, natural light and hospitality made it an attractive destination for filmmakers from across the world.
Saura, who is visiting Kashmir and India for the first time, said she hoped to return and explore the region further.
“This is my first visit to Kashmir and India. I hope to come again,” she said, adding that she was keen to experience Srinagar and its culture.
She stressed the importance of film festivals in creating opportunities for filmmakers and audiences to interact and discover stories from different parts of the world.
The filmmaker also advocated stronger ties between the Indian and Spanish film industries, saying differences in language and filmmaking traditions should not hinder collaboration.
“I think we can push for better relationships between India and Spain,” she said.
Highlighting Kashmir’s potential as a shooting destination, she said the valley had many of the elements international filmmakers look for.
“Of course, you have to promote Kashmir. There are great locations, good light for shooting and beautiful lakes,” she said.
Saura said she had already shared photographs of Kashmir with a friend, who also felt the region could be explored as a potential filming destination.
She further suggested that India and Spain had considerable scope for joint productions, including projects featuring Indian actors, and said filmmakers could collaborate despite cultural and linguistic differences.
“There are lots of Indian-Spanish films that you will like,” she said.
The Spanish filmmaker also called for greater coordination between governments and the film industry to encourage international studios and filmmakers to consider Kashmir for future productions.
Welcoming the launch of IFFJK, Saura described the festival as an important initiative that could help connect Kashmir with the global film community.
“It is important for everyone,” she said, expressing hope that the festival would continue for many years and provide international filmmakers an opportunity to visit the region while exposing local audiences to cinema from around the world.
