Umaisar Gull Ganie
Srinagar, Nov 3: Nearly seven months after the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which led to widespread cancellations of film shoots across Kashmir, the valley has once again welcomed a film crew, this time from the South Indian film industry, marking a noteworthy revival for cinematic tourism in the region.
The movie, whose title has been kept under wraps for now, is being filmed at various beautiful locations in Srinagar and South Kashmir. The project signals a renewed confidence among filmmakers who had earlier pulled back their schedules following the attack that shook the local film and tourism ecosystem.
A casting Director associated with the project, said the shoot marks a “positive restart” for film activity in the region.
“After the Pahalgam attack, many production houses had put their Kashmir schedules on hold due to safety concerns. Being from outside the valley, even though we had initial apprehensions, once we came here, the experience has been completely positive. The people are cooperative, the environment feels safe, and the local support has been incredible,” he said, expressing optimism that more crews will soon follow.
The director and lead actors of the film, currently engaged in shooting, said they initially had concerns about the situation in the valley but were “pleasantly surprised” upon arrival.
“We did have some fears before coming here, given what had happened earlier this year. But once we arrived, we found the place to be safe and welcoming. The people are very cooperative, the security arrangements are good, and we were able to work freely in a positive atmosphere,” they said.
Notably, the return of the film crew comes as a morale booster for local facilitators, tourism operators and artists associated with the Kashmir film industry. The valley has long been a favourite destination for filmmakers, from classic Bollywood hits to contemporary web productions, owing to its breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural charm.
Officials from the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department welcomed the development, calling it “a positive sign of regained confidence”.
Sources said more film projects, including from Bollywood and regional industries, are in the pipeline for the coming months of late November and December.
