Three short documentaries from filmmaker Bharatbala’s acclaimed “Virtual Bharat” series have been selected for the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026. The festival, themed “Rang-e-Cinema,” is scheduled to take place from September 7 to 10 across Srinagar, Jammu, and Gulmarg, according to an official spokesperson. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the festival aims to put the Union Territory on the global cinematic map.
The selected films include ‘Naqsh-e-Daur,’ which chronicles the life and work of Srinagar-based master craftsman Ghulam Nabi Dar, a recipient of significant acclaim for his six decades of dedication to carving Kashmir’s rich history and cultural motifs into walnut wood. This documentary also sheds light on Dar’s commitment to mentoring young artisans, a crucial effort in preserving the traditional craft for future generations. The second film, ‘Taleem,’ delves into Kashmir’s centuries-old carpet-weaving tradition, exploring the intricate oral code, known as Taleem, that artisans meticulously follow to create complex silk and wool carpets. The third selection, ‘Kunemechi,’ offers a glimpse into Phesao village in Dimapur, Nagaland, following an individual as he constructs a traditional Naga home using inherited wood-carving techniques, while simultaneously imparting the craft and its associated values to the next generation.
‘Naqsh-e-Daur’ and ‘Taleem’ have been chosen for the J&K select competition section of the festival, highlighting local talent and narratives within a broader international context. ‘Kunemechi,’ on the other hand, will be screened in the non-competition section, offering a diverse range of cinematic expressions. The festival received an overwhelming response, with approximately 1,100 entries submitted from over 50 countries. Organizers have shortlisted 135 films from 41 countries for screening, indicating a robust international participation and a high standard of submissions.
A distinguished five-member international jury will preside over the assessment of entries across various competition sections. The jury comprises acclaimed figures in the film industry, including cinematographer-director Santosh Sivan, Oscar and BAFTA-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty, German film curator Dorothee Wenner, media entrepreneur Keiko Bang, and National Award-winning filmmaker-educator Himansu Sekhar Khatu. Their collective expertise is expected to bring a discerning eye to the diverse cinematic works presented.
Screenings are slated to be held at prominent venues across the Union Territory. In Srinagar, films will be shown at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) and the INOX multiplex. Jammu will host screenings at Movie Time Cinemas, while the Gulmarg Convention Centre will serve as a venue in Gulmarg. This multi-location approach aims to engage audiences across different regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
Beyond the competitive screenings, the festival is set to feature an Emerging Filmmakers Contest. This initiative is specifically designed to foster and promote local talent, encourage cultural exchange, and bolster film tourism within the Union Territory. The organizers believe this contest will provide a vital platform for new voices in filmmaking to emerge and gain recognition.
The “Virtual Bharat” series, created by filmmaker Bharatbala, is an ambitious project aiming to produce 1,000 short films that capture the essence of India, encompassing its people, traditions, art, and folklore. Launched in 2019, the series has already seen collaborations with prominent artists such as AR Rahman, Gulzar, and Shreya Ghoshal, underscoring its commitment to showcasing India’s diverse cultural tapestry through cinematic storytelling. The inclusion of these documentaries in the IFFJK signifies a recognition of their artistic merit and their contribution to documenting India’s cultural heritage.
The International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir represents a significant step in establishing the region as a hub for international cinema and cultural exchange. By bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences from around the globe, the festival aims to foster a vibrant cinematic ecosystem and highlight the unique cultural landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. The selection of the “Virtual Bharat” series, with its focus on Indian traditions and craftsmanship, is particularly fitting for a festival hosted in this culturally rich region.
The festival’s theme, “Rang-e-Cinema,” which translates to “The Colour of Cinema,” suggests an emphasis on the visual and artistic aspects of filmmaking, as well as the diverse palette of stories and perspectives that cinema can offer. This theme is well-aligned with the visual richness of the selected documentaries, which explore traditional crafts and cultural practices through compelling narratives and imagery. The organizers anticipate that the festival will not only showcase cinematic excellence but also serve as a catalyst for cultural dialogue and understanding.
The participation of a renowned international jury further elevates the prestige of the IFFJK, ensuring that the films are evaluated by seasoned professionals with extensive experience in the global film industry. The presence of figures like Santosh Sivan and Resul Pookutty, both recipients of international accolades, is a testament to the festival’s ambition to be a significant event on the international film calendar. Their insights and evaluations will undoubtedly contribute to the credibility and impact of the festival’s awards and selections.
The commitment to promoting local talent through the Emerging Filmmakers Contest is a crucial aspect of the festival’s mandate. Jammu and Kashmir has a burgeoning creative community, and providing a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work is essential for the growth of the regional film industry. This initiative, coupled with the international film screenings, aims to create a comprehensive cinematic experience that benefits both local artists and the wider film community.
The choice of venues across Srinagar, Jammu, and Gulmarg is strategic, aiming to disseminate the festival’s activities and reach a broader audience within the Union Territory. Each location offers a unique setting, from the urban sophistication of Srinagar’s convention center and multiplex to the natural beauty of Gulmarg, providing diverse backdrops for cinematic engagement. This geographical spread is expected to enhance accessibility and encourage wider participation from residents and tourists alike.
The “Virtual Bharat” project itself represents a monumental effort to document and celebrate India’s vast cultural heritage. By creating a comprehensive archive of short films, Bharatbala aims to preserve and disseminate knowledge about India’s diverse traditions, art forms, and folklore. The selection of its documentaries for the IFFJK underscores the project’s success in producing high-quality content that resonates with both national and international audiences, contributing to a greater appreciation of India’s cultural richness.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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