Vomedh to Host Joint Jammu & Srinagar Film Festival: A Global Cinematic Celebration in the Heart of Kashmir

Jammu, October 14, 2024: In a landmark announcement today, Vomedh, the driving force behind Jammu & Kashmir’s acclaimed film festivals, revealed the exciting merger of the Jammu Film Festival (JFF) and The International Film Festival of Srinagar (TIFFS). This ground-breaking joint edition, scheduled for 20th – 23rd November 2024, promises an unprecedented celebration of cinema, bridging the cultural landscape of Jammu and Srinagar. This was disclosed in a press conference addressed in Srinagar by Festival Director Rohit Bhat, Festival Advisor Sanjay Saraf and acclaimed theatre director and actor, Manzoor Ahmed Mir.

Founded by cultural activists and brothers, Rakesh Roshan Bhat and Rohit Bhat, Vomedh has tirelessly championed art and culture in the region. Their dedication to showcasing diverse cinematic voices is evident in the festival’s impressive scope, featuring 78 films from 29 countries. A distinguished jury meticulously curated this selection from a staggering 400 entries, representing a global tapestry of storytelling. The festival will screen 59 short films, 14 documentaries, and 5 feature films, offering a captivating experience for film enthusiasts.

The festival kicks off with a grand opening ceremony in Jammu on 20th November, with screenings taking place across both cities. Jammu will host screenings from 20th to 22nd November at Abhinav Theatre, while Srinagar will welcome film lovers on 22nd and 23rd November at Tagore Hall, culminating in a grand finale and closing ceremony on 23rd November.

This special edition is dedicated to the memory of the late Mushtaq Kak, a legendary theatre director, actor, and long-time jury member of both JFF and TIFFS. His illustrious career, spanning decades and adorned with prestigious accolades including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, left an indelible mark on the world of performing arts. The festival stands as a testament to Kak’s enduring legacy and his profound contributions to theatre and film.

Vomedh’s commitment to promoting Jammu & Kashmir as a hub for international cultural exchange is clearly reflected in this ambitious joint film festival. The event promises to be a testament to the power of cinema to unite, inspire, and ignite meaningful conversations.

Rohit Bhat, Festival Director, expressed his excitement over the unprecedented global response to this year’s festival: “The incredible volume of submissions from across the world affirms that Jammu & Kashmir is now firmly on the map as a significant player in the global film festival circuit. This joint edition of JFF and TIFFS promises to be our most diverse and celebrated festival yet, reflecting the power of cinema to transcend borders and unite cultures.”

Sanjay Saraf, a prominent social and political figure and Advisor to the festival, highlighted the importance of government support in ensuring the festival’s continued success: “We are hopeful that the government will recognize the cultural significance of this initiative, which has successfully established Jammu and Srinagar as global centers for art and cinema. We look forward to the state’s support in nurturing this platform that brings together filmmakers, artists, and audiences from across the globe.”

Renowned Director Manzoor Ahmad Mir spoke passionately about the unifying power of art: “Art and culture have always transcended boundaries of region, religion, or race. This film festival is a testament to the way storytelling can bring people together, and I am proud to be a part of this celebration.”

Renowned actor Lalit Parimoo and director Rahul Sharma, both key jury members, paid heartfelt tributes to Mushtaq Kak: “Mushtaq Kak was an iconic figure whose wisdom and vision shaped this festival. We dedicate this year’s event to his memory, as a humble tribute to the invaluable role he played in nurturing the arts in Jammu & Kashmir.”

The press conference was graced by several notable figures who are integral to the success of this festival. These included: Deepak Koul, Manager of Legends League; actors and directors Farhad Siddique and Zafer Dar; and prominent theatre, cinema, and social figures Gulfam Barji and Aijaz Ahmad. Additionally, Bharti Kaul, Vice President of Vomedh, along with Rakesh Roshan Bhat, Mentor of Vomedh and Festival Co-Director, wished the festival tremendous success and encouraged youth participation in this celebration of cinematic excellence.

Renowned anchors Bindiya Tickoo and Kusum Tickoo will lend their dynamic presence to the festival, hosting the event over its five-day span across Jammu and Srinagar.

Entry to the festival is free at both Jammu and Srinagar.