SRINAGAR: Actors Pankaj Tripathi and Divyenndu, best known for their roles as Kaleen Bhaiya and Munna Tripathi in the popular web series Mirzapur, on Tuesday said Jammu and Kashmir has immense potential for regional cinema, with its local stories, young talent and evolving digital ecosystem offering significant opportunities for filmmakers.
Interacting with the media on the sidelines of the second day of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) at SKICC Srinagar, the actors said they had enjoyed their time in Kashmir, particularly its food, people and culture.
“We liked it very much. We had Kashmiri food, met people here and felt a sense of belonging. It was wonderful. We would like more of our films to come here,” they said.
Speaking about the region’s cinematic potential, the actors said Kashmir’s appeal extends beyond its scenic beauty, with its people, culture and rooted stories providing rich material for filmmakers.
“There is a lot of future ahead. There will be theatres, OTT platforms and many other opportunities. There is tremendous scope,” they said.
They also highlighted the potential of young filmmakers and actors in the region, saying the growing film ecosystem could provide them with greater opportunities to showcase their talent.
Responding to students and aspiring filmmakers attending the festival, Tripathi and Divyenndu said film festivals and masterclasses provide an important platform for learning from experienced professionals.
“We have seen how films are made. In a four-day festival, if there are masterclasses, that is a very good thing. There will be a lot to listen to and learn,” they said.
Asked about the possibility of making a film in Kashmir, the actors said the region offers a wealth of stories rooted in its people and culture.
“I like Dal Lake. Kashmir has beautiful, rooted stories,” they said.
They said Kashmir could offer filmmakers stories that go beyond its landscapes, covering its people, food, culture and everyday life.
“Kashmir is one of the most beautiful parts of the country. If infrastructure is further developed, it would be wonderful to come here and tell stories about Kashmir,” they said.
Reflecting on Kashmir’s long association with the film industry, the actors noted that filmmakers have historically visited the region largely for song sequences and shooting locations. They said the focus could now shift towards telling deeper and more authentic stories about the region.
“Kashmir has had a connection with cinema for a long time. People used to come here for songs and shoots. But there are so many other things—the people, food and culture. Why not talk about them?” they said.
The actors are in Srinagar as part of the ongoing International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir, which has brought together filmmakers, actors, technicians, students and cinema enthusiasts from across the country and abroad.(KNO)
