Srinagar, Sep 7: Bollywood actor Fatima Sana Shaikh, who portrayed wrestler Geeta Phogat in Dangal, on Monday hailed the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) as an important platform for bringing people together, empowering youth and promoting regional cinema.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of IFFJK 2026, Shaikh said she was excited to attend a film festival after a long gap and praised the cultural vibrancy surrounding the event.
“It has been a long time since I attended a festival like this, so I am very excited. Cultural events like this are very important because they bring people together,” she said.
Shaikh said cultural festivals provide young people with opportunities to participate, showcase their talent and engage with creative activities.
She expressed happiness over the growing participation of youth in cultural events, saying such initiatives could help them move forward and gain greater exposure.
“It is very important for the youth. People come from outside and they deserve these opportunities,” she said, adding that she was proud to see young people participating in cultural activities and progressing.
Speaking about regional cinema, Shaikh said films have the power to showcase the culture, poetry and artistry that form part of India’s diverse heritage.
“Regional cinema is important. Through cinema, poetry, culture and artistry can be showcased. These things have existed for centuries,” she said.
She also said the international character of IFFJK could attract filmmakers from across the world and create fresh opportunities for film shoots in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Shaikh, such a festival would allow international filmmakers to understand the region, its people and its potential as a filming destination.
Asked about her Dangal co-star Zaira Wasim, Shaikh said they had not been in touch for several years but recalled her experience of working with her fondly.
“I really enjoyed working with her. It is nice to see people find their own path,” she said.
Reflecting on her visit to Kashmir, Shaikh also admired the region’s natural beauty, particularly its abundance of water, remarking on the distinctive character of Kashmir’s waterways.
Her comments came as IFFJK 2026 brought together filmmakers, actors, artists and cinema enthusiasts, with the festival seeking to create greater cultural exchange and provide a wider platform for Jammu and Kashmir’s cinematic and artistic potential.