Srinagar, Jul 24: Acclaimed filmmaker Imtiaz Ali on Friday described Kashmiri youth as among the brightest creative minds in the country. He expressed hope that the first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) would inspire more young people from the region to pursue careers in cinema and the creative arts.
Speaking at the unveiling of IFFJK’s logo at Royal Springs Golf Course here, Ali said he was fortunate to work in Jammu and Kashmir, where he witnessed not only breathtaking landscapes but also the warmth and artistic richness of its people.
“I believe the Kashmiri youth is perhaps the brightest as far as artistic talent and creative talent is concerned, at least in this country,” he said, adding that the region possesses a rich human resource capable of making a meaningful contribution to the world through art and storytelling.
Ali said he hoped his experience of shooting films in Jammu and Kashmir would encourage more local youngsters to become part of the creative industry.
Reflecting on his long association with the region, the filmmaker said every day spent in Kashmir had been “a day well spent” and expressed gratitude for the affection he had received from its people. “I have received a lot of love from all of you, and I hope I can be of service and deserve this recognition,” he said.
The first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) is scheduled to be held in September this year as the Union Territory’s first international film festival—(KNO)
