Srinagar, July 25,2026 -Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali has urged aspiring filmmakers from Jammu and Kashmir to focus on creating regional films of international quality, saying that authentic local stories have the potential to captivate audiences across the world.
Speaking during an interaction with budding filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts, Ali said Kashmir possesses a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and countless untold stories that deserve to be showcased on the global stage. He stressed that filmmakers should remain rooted in their regional identity while adopting world-class storytelling techniques and production standards.
The acclaimed director said that language should never be considered a barrier in cinema, as powerful emotions and compelling narratives transcend geographical and linguistic boundaries. He encouraged young filmmakers to draw inspiration from their surroundings, traditions, folklore, and everyday life to create meaningful and impactful films.
Imtiaz Ali emphasised that originality is the biggest strength of regional cinema. Rather than imitating mainstream commercial trends, he advised filmmakers to develop their own unique voice and present stories that reflect the realities, aspirations, and culture of Kashmir.
He also highlighted the growing opportunities for independent filmmakers through digital platforms and international film festivals, noting that quality regional cinema is receiving increasing recognition worldwide. According to him, films with authentic storytelling and strong emotional depth can compete successfully on global platforms regardless of their language.
The filmmaker further called for greater collaboration among writers, directors, technicians, and artists in Jammu and Kashmir to build a vibrant film ecosystem capable of producing internationally acclaimed cinema.
His remarks come at a time when the Union Territory is witnessing renewed interest in filmmaking, supported by improved infrastructure, government initiatives, and the increasing use of Kashmir as a destination for film production. Industry experts believe such encouragement from established filmmakers could inspire a new generation of local storytellers to take Kashmiri cinema to international audiences.
