Srinagar, Sep 8: 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 second day of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) at SKICC Srinagar, Imtiyaz described the Valley as one of the most cinematic places in the world.
“I am repeatedly drawn back to Kashmir after completing a shoot,” he said.
Recalling his film Laila Majnu, the filmmaker said the movie was deeply connected to Kashmir with its characters, atmosphere and visual identity shaped by the region.
He expressed surprise and gratitude over the film’s continued popularity among Kashmir’s audience nearly eight years after its release.
On historical figures from Kashmir who could inspire future films, Imtiyaz mentioned Habba Khatoon as well as several Sufi saints and artists saying he would be interested in exploring their stories through cinema.
He said filmmakers have only explored a small part of Kashmiri culture.
While Kashmir is widely recognised for its landscapes, Imtiyaz said its distinctive humour and everyday cultural life also deserve greater representation on screen.
Referring to the importance of IFFJK, Imtiyaz 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.
On part of Rockstar filmed in Chandanwari, the filmmaker said Kashmir has such a strong identity that it naturally leaves an impression on any film shot in the Valley.
Recalling his experiences of working in Kashmir, Imtiyaz praised the warmth, hospitality and support extended by local residents.
He said the workers including painters and carpenters often became closely involved with film crews, contributing to the filmmaking process.
Describing Kashmiris as sensitive, creative and emotionally expressive, Imtiyaz said it can strengthen the region’s emerging film industry.
He 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.
Imiyaz 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.
Imityaz observed that Kashmir’s cinematic identity remains largely associated with its landscapes and 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.