Srinagar, Sep 5: The upcoming film festival in Jammu and Kashmir has received an overwhelming response from filmmakers across the globe, with around 1,100 film entries from 92 countries, reflecting growing international interest in the region as an emerging destination for cinematic and cultural exchange.

According to JD DIPR Shahnawaz Bukhari, a total of 135 films have been shortlisted for screening at the festival following the selection process.
The impressive international participation has added significant momentum to the festival, bringing together diverse cinematic voices, stories and creative perspectives from different parts of the world.
The response from filmmakers and production houses across 92 countries highlights the widening global reach of the event and underscores the potential of Jammu and Kashmir to host platforms that connect local audiences and filmmakers with the international film community.
The selected films represent a wide range of cinematic expressions and are expected to offer audiences an opportunity to experience varied themes, cultures, storytelling traditions and filmmaking styles from across the world.
The festival is also expected to provide a platform for filmmakers to interact with one another, exchange ideas and explore opportunities for collaboration. For local filmmakers and aspiring artists, the event could offer valuable exposure to international cinema and contemporary filmmaking practices.
The strong response has been welcomed as an encouraging development for the region's growing cultural and creative ecosystem. Beyond film screenings, such an international gathering can contribute to promoting Jammu and Kashmir's artistic identity and strengthening its position on the global cultural map.
Officials associated with the festival said the selection of 135 films from a substantially larger pool reflects the quality and diversity of submissions received from around the world.
The event is expected to bring together filmmakers, actors, producers, critics, cinema enthusiasts and other stakeholders, creating opportunities for meaningful engagement between the local and international film fraternity.
The international participation also comes at a time when Jammu and Kashmir is seeking to expand its cultural and creative footprint through festivals, artistic programmes and initiatives aimed at encouraging the film and entertainment sector.
With around 1,100 entries received from 92 countries, the festival has already generated considerable interest before its commencement. The screening of 135 selected films is expected to form the centrepiece of the event, offering audiences a diverse cinematic experience while showcasing Jammu and Kashmir as a vibrant platform for global cinema.
The development has also strengthened expectations that the festival could become an important annual platform for filmmakers and audiences, helping foster cultural exchange and opening new avenues for collaboration between Jammu and Kashmir and the wider international film community.