Associated News Bureau

Omar Abdullah Inaugurates First International Film Festival of J&K, Puts Kashmir on Global Cinema Map

Srinagar, September 7: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the first International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) in Srinagar, marking a significant milestone in Jammu & Kashmir’s longstanding association with cinema and opening a new chapter in the region’s cultural and creative journey. The inaugural festival has brought together filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from across the world, with participation from more than 30 countries and over 130 films being showcased. The event provides a platform for diverse cinematic voices while highlighting Jammu & Kashmir as an emerging destination for filmmakers, storytellers and creative professionals. Addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister said the festival reflects Jammu & Kashmir’s aspiration to establish itself as a vibrant home for filmmakers and creative talent from across the globe. He said IFFJK would help strengthen the region’s connection with the international film fraternity while creating new opportunities for cultural exchange, collaboration and creative expression. The festival is expected to showcase a wide spectrum of international and Indian cinema, offering audiences in Jammu & Kashmir an opportunity to experience diverse stories, filmmaking traditions and perspectives from around the world. The launch of IFFJK marks an important step towards positioning Jammu & Kashmir on the global cinematic landscape and reviving its longstanding association with the film industry through a structured international platform. ANB