J&K's first International Film Festival draws 875 entries from 50 countries

The inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026 has received 875 film submissions from around 50 countries so far, reflecting the growing international interest in the Union Territory's cinematic initiative, an official spokesperson said on Wednesday, July 27, as reported by PTI. 

The film submission window will remain open till Thursday, July 30, allowing filmmakers a final opportunity to register their entries for the festival's maiden edition.

The festival aims to establish Jammu and Kashmir as a vibrant destination for cinema, creativity and cultural exchange while providing a prestigious platform for filmmakers from across the world to showcase their work, the spokesperson expressed.

The festival is being organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) in collaboration with National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), and is scheduled to be held from September 7 to 10, respectively.

He said the encouraging response from both national and international filmmakers underscores the growing confidence in Jammu & Kashmir as an emerging hub for film production, cinematic excellence and creative collaboration.

The four-day festival will feature screenings of selected films, interactive sessions, masterclasses, panel discussions and cultural engagements, offering opportunities for filmmakers, industry experts, students and cinema lovers to exchange ideas and explore new avenues for collaboration.

The festival also seeks to promote artistic excellence, cultural exchange, and cinematic innovation by recognising outstanding films from around the world, while fostering greater understanding of diverse film cultures and strengthening friendship and cooperation through the medium of cinema, the spokesperson added.

(With inputs from PTI