Srinagar, Jul 24: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said that while a few filmmakers make movies driven by propaganda, it would be wrong to judge the entire Bollywood industry on that basis.
He said the government wants to strengthen Kashmir’s long-standing relationship with the Hindi film industry by promoting meaningful cinema and making the valley a preferred filming destination.
Speaking at the curtain-raiser of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) held at the Royal Springs Golf Course on the banks of Dal Lake, Omar was responding to a question about the upcoming Ajay Devgn-starrer “Chauhaan”.
“There are a few people who make films for propaganda, but that does not mean the entire Bollywood is wrong,” the Chief Minister said.
He said some filmmakers choose to portray events in a manner that differs from reality, either to ensure commercial success or to please the Central government.
“Does that mean we should stop films from being shot here and break the connection we have with Bollywood? Through this film festival, we want to convey that apart from propaganda, Bollywood is also making good films. Bollywood should make films that we are happy and proud to watch,” he said.
Omar said the upcoming film festival would showcase quality feature films and documentaries while also creating opportunities for local talent.
The CM lamented that local artists often do not receive adequate recognition or opportunities to present their work. “No one talks about our local artists. They rarely get a chance to showcase their talent. We have included dedicated segments and felicitation ceremonies for local artists during the festival so that they can present their work before audiences,” he said.
Acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, who was also present on the occasion, welcomed the government’s efforts to make Jammu and Kashmir more film-friendly.
“I am happy that the government is making film shooting easier here. The Chief Minister has instructed departments to make filming easier, cheaper and better for filmmakers,” Ali said.
He urged local youth to actively participate in the film industry and explore opportunities in cinema.
“I want locals to participate and join us. There is immense potential here, and people should make good cinema,” he said, adding that film festivals such as the IFFJK would provide a significant boost to the region’s film ecosystem by encouraging creativity, collaboration and cultural exchange.
