The opening of the first multiplex in Kashmir is a welcome step. In past three days its the third cinema which has opened in Kashmir which saw closure of cinemas in late 80’s with the start of militancy.
Today, J&K’s Lt Governor inaugurated INOX multiplex theatre in Srinagar and termed the opening of multiplex as a
major Socio-economic revolution that is sweeping through J&K in the last 3 years.
Speaking at the event Sinha said that it is reflection of a new dawn of hope, dreams, confidence & aspirations of people.The opening of multipurpose Cinema Halls in Shopian, Pulwama and the first-ever Multiplex Cinema Hall in Srinagar today marks the revival of cinema culture in the Kashmir valley after three decades.
Culture is a way of life and Cinema being the powerful medium of sharing thoughts and ideas reflects societal values and change. Cinema brings people together. Apart from entertainment it gives hopes, dreams and inspiration to youth to pursue their dreams till they realise it, Lt Governor said at the inaugral ceremony.
Following the inauguration of two multi-purpose cinema halls in Pulwama and Shopian, the UT Government is building multi-purpose cinema halls in all the districts of J&K. The government plans to open multipurpose cinema halls in every district of J&K with each having capacity of 100 seats.
The opening of cinema halls comes in the backdrop of new film policy and establishment of new film city and if government officials are to be believed within next couple of months a new film city will be established in Kashmir which officials say will bring lot of employment and revenue to the people of Kashmir.
The new cinema halls and ongoing film shootings will renew the beautiful bond between Jammu Kashmir and the Indian Film Industry and like yesteryears the Bollywood film crews will be shooting in Kashmir.
The new Film Policy has been rolled out with special provisions and incentives for encouraging local youth to take up film as a career and special avenues will be created for locals.
As per the owners of the multiplex it will offer a world-class cinema-viewing experience, amalgamation of top-notch technology, great hospitality, best of cinema comforts, a blend of local designs, Dolby Atmos audio technology, latest 3D & projection technology and a professionally trained team and after three decades people will have access to entertainment.
Even what could give boost to local economy is that UT government had received 500 shooting proposals, out of which 120 proposals have been cleared which could create avenues for jobs. However, since the security situation is fragile the government needs to be extra vigilant as in the past when cinemas were thrown open the militant attack derailed the entire process. Now the erstwhile cinemas have been either turned into shopping malls or nursing homes and business centres.
