Bhandarkar, Jaffry to join 'Kashmir Moving Images Festival'

Srinagar: Film personalities like Madhur Bhandarkar, Rumi Jaffry and Saleh Salem are participating in a two-day "Kashmir Moving Images Festival" here.

The festival, which was inaugurated by Finance and Culture Minister Haseeb Drabu at Tagore Hall, will exhibit work from Iran, Egypt, Germany and Pakistan.

The minister asked people to celebrate the distinct culture of Jammu & Kashmir and art "that is the hallmark of our society".

While congratulating the organisers of the festival Drabu said the valley need to promote more of such events.

"It is a proud moment for us that such an event is being organised in Kashmir that too by a group of youngsters. This is what we need at present. We have glorious art, diversity, culture and we have to bring our next generation to a position where they feel proud of being part of this distinct culture," he said.

He also appreciated the selection of films that are part of the festival. "The best thing about the festival is the selection of films from countries like those of Middle East that have similar culture like that of ours. This will go a long way in understanding the larger value of art like films and help us appreciate our own culture too."

The minister said that the government's cultural policy is to provide platform and adequate infrastructure wherever it is needed. He advised the art-lovers and creative people to utilise the platform and understand the value of art and culture.