Kashmir's future is bright, filmmakers should focus on beauty, peace: A R Rahman
Oscar-winning composer A R Rahman on Saturday urged filmmakers to showcase Kashmir's natural beauty, peace and cultural richness instead of focusing on violence and conflict, saying the region's future is bright.
Rahman, who was in Jammu and Kashmir to shoot an advertisement, said cinema could play an important role in changing the narrative around the Valley.
Asked about Bollywood's role in promoting Kashmir's picturesque landscapes and culture, he said filmmakers should focus on harmony and move beyond the region's troubled past.
"I think that is what should happen from now. They should bring the beauty and the peace, what you see in nature, as a positive thing, than taking anything about violence or the past. The past was past, the future is bright," Rahman told reporters.
The composer said Kashmir offers artists a rare environment for creative inspiration.
"As artists, we seek inspiration. And when we come here, it is uncluttered, beautiful, and it inspires us," he said.
Rahman also welcomed the hosting of the first-ever International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir, describing the Valley as a beautiful and blessed place.
"Everybody can see the beauty of Kashmir and the vibration of Kashmir. I wish this film festival becomes really famous and a lot of people come here and enjoy the hospitality of the Kashmiri people," he said.
Calling the festival a "great idea", Rahman said he hoped it would grow into an internationally recognised event on the lines of major film festivals in cities such as Amsterdam and London, as well as Sundance.
"I wish Kashmir becomes the best festival of India," he said.
Rahman said he enjoyed shooting his advertisement in J-K and expressed hope of returning to the Valley for a performance.
"We have some plans and we are talking. Hopefully, I want to come and perform here," he said.
He also welcomed the possibility of greater collaboration between Bollywood and folk musicians from Jammu and Kashmir.
"I would love to because I came here for 'Rockstar' and I recorded ladies singing folk songs, and we used it in 'Rockstar'. And we want to come and do more things here," he said.