J&K Chief Minister Unveils Logo For First International Film Festival 2026
J&K launches first global cinema festival initiative.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will unveil the logo of the first International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026 on Friday, marking the formal beginning of preparations for the region’s first major international cinematic event. The logo launch ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Royal Springs Golf Course in Srinagar at 5.30 p.m. The initiative is being viewed as a significant step towards promoting the region’s cultural identity and expanding its presence in the global film industry.
The International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir aims to create a global platform for filmmakers, artists, and creative professionals while highlighting the region’s rich heritage, scenic beauty, and diverse storytelling traditions. Organisers said the festival will bring together talent from India and abroad, showcasing a wide range of cinematic works and encouraging greater engagement with the creative sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
Officials said the festival is expected to strengthen the local film ecosystem by encouraging film production, boosting tourism, and generating employment opportunities for young people associated with cinema and other creative industries. The event is also aimed at positioning Jammu and Kashmir as an emerging destination for filmmakers by promoting its landscapes, cultural traditions, and potential as a location for film projects.
The inaugural IFFJK 2026 is scheduled to be held from September 7 to 10, 2026, primarily at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar. Additional activities, including open-air screenings and cultural programmes, are planned at various tourist destinations across the region. The festival will feature international competitions, Indian cinema sections, documentaries, short films, student films, animation, and regional cinema categories.
The Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir, in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), is organising the festival. Global entries for competitions, including categories such as Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actor Male and Female, opened on July 1 and will remain open until July 31, 2026 through platforms including FilmFreeway.
The festival will also host industry forums, technical workshops, and cultural events aimed at reviving Jammu and Kashmir’s historic connection with cinema and establishing its place on the international film map.