Govt reviving film ecosystem in J&K: LG

Srinagar, July 7: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Sunday said that the government was reviving the film ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.

Releasing a book, ‘The Swinging 70s: The Stars, Style and Substance in Hindi Cinema’ edited by Nirupama Kotru and Shantanu Ray Chaudhuri, in Srinagar, LG Sinha highlighted the efforts of the J&K administration to revive the film ecosystem in J&K.

Speaking on the special bond J&K shares with the world of cinema, he said films and theatre have always played a key role in socio-economic transformation.

“The filmmakers are returning to the Valley. The rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, world-class facilities, and augmented film-related infrastructure have positioned J&K as the most favourite film shooting destination,” the LG said.

He said that J&K Film Policy had created a vibrant film ecosystem in J&K and administrative assistance to ease filmmaking in J&K by setting up a single window cell to grant permission for shooting films, preferably within 2 to 4 weeks.

“The revival of film shooting and return of cinema halls has created entrepreneurial opportunities for the talented youth of J&K. We are hopeful of attracting investment in J&K through the film industry to generate greater job creation and it will also play a major role in promoting tourism,” LG Sinha said.

He called upon the people to support the government in its efforts to build a peaceful and prosperous J&K.

“Cinema is not just about entertainment and business. It is a powerful tool for social change. Through path-breaking commercial films and famous works of parallel cinema, our filmmakers have tried to strike a balance between entertainment and social responsibility. It reflects cultural ethos and has always played an important role in nation-building,” the LG said.

He congratulated the editors Kotru and Chaudhuri, and the publisher, Om Books for bringing out the excellent book.

LG Sinha said that the book would act as a gateway for the readers to revisit the 70s era of Hindi cinema.

The book brings together a collection of essays that celebrate the myriad dimensions of the era of the 70s – the fashion, the music, the different genres of films, the iconic stars, and the unheard stories behind the scenes.

Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo; Director General of Police (DGP) Rashmi Ranjan Swain; Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department, Shaleen Kabra and Principal Secretary Culture Department, Suresh Kumar Gupta were also present on the occasion.