Kashmir’s future is bright, filmmakers should showcase its beauty, peace: A R Rahman

Srinagar| Sept 12: Oscar-winning music composer A R Rahman on Saturday called for filmmakers to highlight Kashmir’s natural beauty, peace and cultural richness, saying the region’s future is bright and cinema can play an important role in reshaping its image.
Rahman, who is currently in Jammu and Kashmir for an advertisement shoot, said filmmakers should move away from repeatedly portraying violence and conflict and instead showcase the Valley’s scenic landscapes, harmony and positive spirit.
“I think that is what should happen from now. They should bring the beauty and the peace, what you see in nature, as a positive thing, than taking anything about violence or the past. The past was past, the future is bright,” Rahman told reporters.
The celebrated composer said Kashmir offers a unique source of inspiration for artists because of its natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere.
“As artists, we seek inspiration. And when we come here, it is uncluttered, beautiful, and it inspires us,” he said.
Rahman also welcomed the hosting of the first-ever International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as a positive initiative that could help place Kashmir on the global cultural and cinematic map.
“Everybody can see the beauty of Kashmir and the vibration of Kashmir. I wish this film festival becomes really famous and a lot of people come here and enjoy the hospitality of the Kashmiri people,” he said.
He expressed hope that the festival would continue to grow and eventually achieve international recognition.
“This is a great idea. And I wish it will grow and grow, and become beautiful, and become such a great experience. Like we go to Amsterdam, and we go to London Film Festival, or all those places, Sundance. I wish Kashmir becomes the best festival of India,” Rahman said.
The internationally acclaimed composer also expressed his desire to perform in Kashmir, saying discussions were underway for a possible concert in the Valley.
“We have some plans and we are talking. Hopefully, I want to come and perform here,” he said.
Rahman further welcomed greater collaboration between Bollywood and folk musicians from Jammu and Kashmir, recalling his earlier association with the region during the making of the film ‘Rockstar’.
“I would love to because I came here for ‘Rockstar’ and I recorded ladies singing folk songs, and we used it in ‘Rockstar’. And we want to come and do more things here,” he said.
Rahman’s remarks came amid renewed efforts to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a destination for filmmaking, cultural exchange and creative industries, with the region’s landscapes, traditions and local talent increasingly drawing attention from filmmakers and artists.