Jammu & Kashmir is set to host its first International Film Festival (IFFJK)-2026 in September this year, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday reviewing preparations and calling for an internationally curated event that reconnects the Union Territory with its rich cinematic legacy while fostering new opportunities for local film-makers and artists.
The meeting in Srinagar held extensive deliberations on the festival’s vision, its screening and programming strategy, branding, digital outreach, industry partnerships and international participation.
Reviewing the proposals, the Chief Minister said the four-day International Film Festival should evolve into a globally recognized cinematic event celebrating storytelling while showcasing Jammu & Kashmir’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, artistic traditions and emerging creative talent. He stressed the need to deliver a professionally curated festival of international standards capable of attracting renowned filmmakers, producers, artists and cinema enthusiasts from across the world.
Omar Abdullah underlined that the festival must not be viewed merely as a film event but as a defining cultural and economic platform for Jammu & Kashmir. He said it should generate opportunities in tourism, investment, employment and the creative economy while reaffirming J&K’s historic place as India’s preferred destination for film production, creative pursuits and cinematic tourism.
Emphasizing the importance of nurturing the local creative ecosystem, the Chief Minister directed that local filmmakers, writers, directors, actors, cinematographers, technicians, photographers, designers, artisans, craftsmen and other creative professionals be meaningfully integrated with the film festival through exhibitions, facilitating networking opportunities and business engagements.
He further instructed the organizers to facilitate structured interactions between local talent and eminent national and international filmmakers, producers, directors, actors and industry experts through master-class & in-conversation sessions, workshops, panel discussions, mentoring sessions and knowledge-sharing programmes.
Such engagements, he said, would provide aspiring professionals from Jammu & Kashmir with global exposure, technical expertise and industry networks while encouraging innovation and excellence in filmmaking.
The Chief Minister also called for instituting a special segment to recognize distinguished actors, filmmakers, directors, producers, cinematographers, musicians and other cinema personalities who have played a significant role in keeping Jammu & Kashmir’s cinematic legacy alive by creating memorable films in the region over the decades.
Recognizing their contribution, he said, would celebrate Kashmir’s enduring association with Indian cinema while inspiring a renewed partnership between the film industry and Jammu & Kashmir.
Highlighting the festival’s wider developmental potential, the Chief Minister said it should also create meaningful opportunities for local artisans, craftspeople, entrepreneurs, tourism stakeholders, ensuring that the benefits of the event extend well beyond the film fraternity. He directed the concerned departments to make the festival a comprehensive celebration of Jammu & Kashmir’s artistic, cultural and entrepreneurial excellence.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the festival’s branding strategy, global outreach, programming, digital engagement, technical collaborations, venue management, audience experience, promotional campaigns and institutional partnerships. The proposed festival will feature international competition, Indian cinema, documentaries, short films, student films, animation, regional cinema, industry forums, workshops and cultural programmes.