Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], September 12 (ANI): Oscar-winning music composer AR Rahman hailed Kashmir as a "beautiful" and "blessed" place, saying the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir is a commendable initiative that will showcase the Valley's scenic beauty, vibrant culture and warm hospitality to the world.
Expressing hope that the festival will gain global recognition, Rahman said Kashmir's peaceful and inspiring surroundings make it an ideal destination for filmmakers and artists, while encouraging Bollywood to highlight the region's beauty and collaborate more with local musicians.
Speaking to ANI, Rahman said Kashmir's scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal destination for filmmakers and artists seeking inspiration.
"Kashmir is a beautiful place and it's blessed. So having an international film festival is commendable and 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.
Sharing details of his current visit, the composer said, "I've come for an ad. I'll tell you what it is. We enjoyed shooting the ad, we just finished it."
AR Rahman also revealed that he is exploring future collaborations in Kashmir, including a possible live performance.
"Yes, we have some plans, and we are talking. Hopefully, I want to come and perform here," he said.
On whether Bollywood should increasingly use Kashmir as a filming destination, Rahman said the industry should project the Valley's beauty and peace.
"That's a very good point. I think that's what should happen from now. They should bring the beauty and the peace when you see nature as a positive thing rather than talking about violence or the past. The past is past, and the future is bright," he said.
Highlighting the potential of Kashmiri folk and traditional music, Rahman welcomed greater collaboration between Bollywood musicians and local artistes.
"I think that's a beautiful suggestion and I would love to. I came here for 'Rockstar'. I recorded the ladies singing folk songs, and we used it in Rockstar. We want to come and do more things here. We want to come and do more things here," he said.
Referring to the International Film Festival, Rahman expressed hope that it would evolve into a globally recognised event.
"Yes, this is a great opening. I wish it will grow and grow and become such a great experience. We go to Amsterdam, and we go to London Film Festival and Sundance. I wish Kashmir becomes the best festival in India," he added. (ANI)
"Kashmir is beautiful, blessed": AR Rahman pitches valley for global cinema hub
