Srinagar, Sep 7: Filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra on Monday hoped that thefirst International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) would open the Union territory's doors to international cinema.
"I hope so, in fact, I fully expect so. I am very optimistic," Chopra told reporters on the sidelines of the opening of the festival at SKICC here.
The filmmaker, known for directing "Parinda" and "12th Fail" and producing films such as the "Munnabhai" series as well as "3 Idiots", said if he, a young Kashmiri boy from a humble background, can achieve what he has, any one can.
"So there is hope, isn't there? There is massive hope for all of us," he added.
Chopra, who also directed "Mission Kashmir", said he is extremely grateful that the government took the step to have the IFFJK
"For me, this is truly a homecoming," he said.
Asserting that there was tremendous talent in Kashmir, the producer-director said the young filmmakers from the valley should not let anything stand in their way.
"It is very important. There is so much talent in Kashmir, I see so much talent. My humble request to all young Kashmiri filmmakers is this: pick up a small camera, make a film, and show the world what you can do. And this film festival, initiated by the government, is a massive opportunity for you all to show the world your capabilities," he said.
The "Munnabhai" producer said the festival provides a fantastic opportunity for Kashmiri students and Kashmiri filmmakers to connect and interact with leading filmmakers and artists.
"The Cannes Festival is so massive because it is in Cannes. This is in Kashmir, so it will feature Kashmir's stories. The stories our people have cannot be found anywhere else in India or the rest of the world. We have our own stories. This is a festival through which our stories will reach the world," he added.
"Dangal" star Fatima Sana Sheikh was the host at the festival. She said her mother is from Kashmir so she was happy to be back after many years.
"Sometimes we forget what it feels like to come home. The moment I stepped foot here, childhood memories came rushing back. I am just very happy that Kashmir is taking an initiative like this and we are getting to be a part of it," she added.
The festival, she said, is important for promoting regional cinema.
"The stories we usually see set in Kashmir are told from an outsider's perspective. Right? Regional cinema captures the local intricacies. For a layperson who isn't from that world, that city, or that state, viewing that world through the lens of a local is extraordinarily important.
"Because we aren't defined merely by what the news portrays. We are so much more than that. And discovering this through music, cinema, or poetry -- that is what truly travels," she said.
"Heeramandi" actor Taha Shah Badussha, who also hosted the event, said Kashmir possesses immense beauty and filmmakers are going to be mesmerized by it.
Organised by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, IFFJK 2026 is taking place from September 7 to 10. IT is dedicated to promoting artistic excellence, cinematic innovation, and cultural exchange, while fostering a deeper appreciation for world cinema.
