A Bollywood delegation was on a four-day visit (till January 30) to Kashmir to explore locations for upcoming film projects. Tourism officials say that in the ’60s and ’70s, Kashmir was a favourite destination among filmmakers for shoots, and they are now planning to revive it. The 24-member delegation explored scenic locations of Gulmarg among other places and discussed their plans with the officials.

Kashmir tourism officials say that from quick permissions to fulfilling security requirements, they are taking necessary steps to ease shoots in the area. Officials add that the atmosphere is congenial, and filmmakers will not face any difficulty in shooting. G N Itoo, Director, Tourism, Kashmir, says, “The bond between Bollywood and Kashmir has been old, going back to ’50s and ’60s. Many old films such as Junglee, Bobby and Kabhi Kabhie were shot in Kashmir. There was a period when not many films were shot here, but now we want to revive those old days of shoots. We want the film industry to come here to shoot. Films are one of the biggest platforms to show the beauty, heritage and tradition of Kashmir.”

He adds, “The tourism department has a publicity policy, which has different components such as road shows and films. Film shoots have always given a publicity boost to Kashmir tourism.”

Local line producers are also expected to meet the Bollywood delegation. Khawar Jamsheed, who has been a line producer for films like Rockstar and Haider, says, “At present, two-three films from the south are being shot in Kashmir. Some Bollywood film recces are also lined up for February-March. Filmmakers have often preferred to shoot song sequences here, but are now exploring stories of the region. In fact, Srinagar, Pahalgam and Gulmarg are the three preferred locations. Filmmakers are also showing interest in Kargil.” 

Talking about permissions, he says, “We get quick permissions from the Department of Tourism. They give us a letter which states that permission should be quickly given for shoots. For instance, if I need permission from Floriculture department, then I will show the letter and permission is provided immediately. We continuously discuss with government departments to make permission process even smoother.”

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Talking about the meeting, G N Itoo tells us, “We had a session with the Bollywood delegation. They mentioned some points, such as hassle-free shooting and all permissions and security to be provided in advance, as they have to bring their whole crew from Mumbai. They also discussed single-window permission for film shoots.”

Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary, Tourism, Kashmir, said that wherever needed, security, etc will be provided to them and otherwise as well, there has been a congenial atmosphere towards film shoots.

Ideel Saleem, Deputy Director, Tourism, Kashmir (Publicity), shares, “The delegation visited Gulmarg and discussed the locations. In Srinagar, they visited Shikara, Golf Course, Lal Chowk and other places. We also discussed how the local youth and their skills can be used, so they can help in production and shooting of films.”

A video conference was also organised and Niteshwar Kumar, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor, Jammu and Kashmir, informed the delegation about the film policy which they are working on. Talking to the media, Nitin Ahuja, CEO, Producers Guild pointed out that there was a time when Kashmir was a favourite location for film shoots, and they want to revive it. Line producers tell us that several recces are also planned in March-April.