Srinagar, September 7: Actress Fatima Sana Shaikh has emphasized the crucial role of film festivals in providing a platform for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to express themselves and gain national and international recognition.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) in Srinagar, Shaikh, who is co-hosting the event, stated that such cultural gatherings can significantly alter the external perception of the region. She articulated that the people of Kashmir are more than what is often portrayed in the news, defining themselves through their cinema, art, and music.
Fatima Sana Shaikh, whose family has roots in Kashmir, expressed a sense of nostalgia upon returning to the Valley. She noted the importance of cultural events for the progress of young individuals. “We also want our youth to move forward, they should raise their voice. It feels good when someone close to us grows,” she remarked during a press conference preceding the festival’s inauguration at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC).
The actress also spoke about the significance of regional cinema in offering a deeper understanding of local cultures and peoples. She believes that films rooted in local traditions provide intricate insights, allowing audiences to view the world through a local lens.
During the festival, Shaikh was asked about her former co-star Zaira Wasim, who also hails from Kashmir and has since left the film industry. Shaikh mentioned that they have not spoken in a long time, but she is happy for Wasim’s personal journey.
The International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir aims to rebuild the relationship between the film industry and the region, serving as an institutional platform for filmmakers and artists to reconnect with the Valley. The festival has received approximately 1,100 entries from 92 countries, with 135 films shortlisted for screening, representing over 40 nations. The event is anticipated to foster film tourism and create new opportunities for collaborations within Jammu and Kashmir.
The Chenab Times News Desk