Imtiaz Ali: Kashmir Has Countless Stories Yet to Tell
SRINAGAR: Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali on Tuesday said Kashmir remains rich with untold stories, unique characters and cultural traditions, expressing hope that the region’s growing connection with cinema will create new opportunities for local filmmakers and artists.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the second day of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) at SKICC Srinagar, Ali said he is repeatedly drawn back to Kashmir after completing a shoot, describing the Valley as one of the most cinematic places in the world.
Recalling his film Laila Majnu, Ali said the movie was deeply connected to Kashmir, with its characters, atmosphere and visual identity shaped by the region. He also expressed surprise and gratitude over the film’s continued popularity among Kashmiri audiences nearly eight years after its release.
Asked about historical figures from Kashmir who could inspire future films, Ali mentioned Habba Khatoon as well as several Sufi saints and artists associated with the Valley, saying he would be interested in exploring their stories through cinema.
Ali said filmmakers have only explored a small part of Kashmiri culture. While Kashmir is widely recognised for its landscapes, he said its distinctive humour and everyday cultural life also deserve greater representation on screen.
Speaking about the importance of IFFJK, Ali said the festival can provide exposure by bringing people from outside Kashmir to the region, allowing them to experience its culture and people directly rather than relying on secondhand perceptions.
Referring to Rockstar, parts of which were filmed in Chandanwari, Ali said Kashmir has such a strong identity that it naturally leaves an impression on any film production shot in the Valley.
Recalling his experiences of working in Kashmir, he praised the warmth and support extended by local residents. He said workers including painters and carpenters often became closely involved with film crews, contributing to the filmmaking process. He also described Kashmiris as sensitive, creative and emotionally expressive, qualities he believes can strengthen the region’s emerging film industry.
Ali called for greater institutional support for local filmmakers and artists, saying sustained efforts could help establish Jammu and Kashmir as a significant filmmaking destination. He even joked that the region could eventually become attractive enough to draw filmmakers of the stature of Steven Spielberg.
He expressed hope that more films centred on Kashmir and featuring local actors would be produced in the future. He also stressed the importance of introducing children to filmmaking at an early age.
Ali observed that Kashmir’s cinematic identity remains largely associated with its landscapes, adding that changing this perception will take time. However, he said there are already signs of progress, with Kashmiri culture and music increasingly being incorporated into films.
He said IFFJK has the potential to become an important platform connecting filmmakers, artists and audiences while helping build a stronger and more sustainable film culture across Jammu and Kashmir.
