IFFJK 2026 to showcase 135 Films from 41 Countries; ₹96 Lakh Prize Purse Announced

Srinagar : Jammu & Kashmir is all set to screen 135 films from 41 countries in its inaugural edition of the International Film Festival bringing the world of cinema to the UT from September 7 to 10, 2026.
Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, Thursday reviewed the final arrangements for the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK 2026), directing all concerned departments and agencies to work in close coordination to ensure a seamless and memorable experience for filmmakers, artists, delegates and audiences.
The meeting reviewed the key features, participation, programming, venue arrangements, cultural presentations, publicity strategy and departmental responsibilities for the four-day festival, which is being positioned as a major international cultural and creative platform for Jammu & Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary, Home; Principal Secretary, Culture; Commissioner Secretary, General Administration Department; Divisional Commissioners, Jammu/Kashmir; IGP (POS); Commissioner Secretary, Floriculture; Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Director, Information; Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation; Director, Hospitality & Protocol; Director, Handicrafts & Handloom, Kashmir; Director, School Education, Kashmir; Director, Estates; Joint Director, Information Jammu/Kashmir; GM, NFDC and other senior officers of DIPR.
Chairing the meeting Chief Secretary took detailed note of the preparations made for the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026, urging Divisional and District Administrations to ensure a seamless and professional execution of the event. He highlighted the necessity for inter-departmental coordination and efficient execution of responsibilities among all involved agencies. The Chief Secretary called on the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to attract a significant number of renowned filmmakers and actors to the festival, underscoring the importance of establishing high organizational standards for this annual international event. During the meeting, the Director of Information & Public Relations, Shreya Singhal, presented details about the festival, which will feature 135 films from 41 countries, with India contributing the largest number at 64 films. The festival will also include a substantial prize purse of ₹96 lakh across nine categories, with notable awards for Best Film, Best Director, and regional recognition for films from Jammu & Kashmir. A unique aspect of the festival will be a Floating Screen on Dal Lake, enhancing the cinematic experience while showcasing the region’s cultural and natural beauty. Additionally, the festival will host a masterclass series featuring industry professionals, providing aspiring filmmakers and students with direct engagement opportunities. The cultural programming will include performances by national and local artists, reflecting the rich heritage of Jammu & Kashmir. A comprehensive publicity strategy is in place to generate public interest and anticipation for the festival, which aims to position Jammu & Kashmir as a global hub for cinema and cultural exchange.