Srinagar, Sept 9 : Bollywood singer Sunidhi Chauhan on Monday said she had fallen in love with Kashmir, describing her visit to the Valley as the fulfilment of a childhood dream and expressing hope of returning to perform a concert for the people.
Speaking at a joint press conference organised on the sidelines of the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK), ahead of the screening of Mirzapur: The Movie, Chauhan said she was delighted to finally visit Kashmir after years of travelling to different parts of the world.
“I cannot tell you how happy I am. It was my childhood dream to come to Kashmir. Over the years, I have travelled to so many places, but I never got the opportunity to visit Kashmir. Finally, this time I am here, and I feel like I am in heaven,” she said.
Chauhan praised Kashmir’s natural beauty, people, cuisine and peaceful atmosphere, saying she did not feel like leaving the Valley.
“The people here, the warmth with which they meet you, the food and the peace and tranquillity—what can I say? I simply do not feel like leaving,” she said.
The singer expressed hope of returning to Kashmir with a concert and said she wanted to contribute in her own way to the people of the region.
“Earlier, I fell in love with Kashmir just by seeing it on screen, but now, after being here, I feel that I want to do my bit for the people of Kashmir,” she said.
Film festival can boost tourism, filmmaking
Calling the IFFJK a “very good initiative”, Chauhan said the festival was providing a platform to films and filmmakers who often struggle to receive the recognition they deserve.
She said film festivals were particularly important for young people aspiring to careers in direction, acting, singing and other areas of filmmaking.
“These are platforms where people learn a lot, and if they are confused about something, they can come here and get clarity because there is so much to explore,” she said.
Chauhan welcomed the participation of young people from Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir in the festival and urged them to make the most of the opportunities available.
She also appealed to audiences to use social media to promote quality cinema and help good films reach wider audiences.
“If you like something, numbers and all these things do not matter. Just let the films spread and reach as many people as possible. If good films are appreciated, more good films will be made and people's minds will also open up,” she said.
On the potential of Kashmir as a destination for filmmaking and tourism, Chauhan said the two sectors had long been associated with the Valley and expressed confidence that the film festival would give them further impetus.
‘Every frame in Kashmir looks beautiful’
“You can shoot anywhere in Kashmir and every frame looks beautiful. I think the Film Festival will give this an even greater boost and help more people discover Kashmir,” she said.
She added that the festival could also encourage the younger generation to explore Kashmir’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for them to discover Kashmir, spend time in these valleys and experience this beautiful environment,” she said.
Chauhan also highlighted the musical talent present in Kashmir, recalling a contestant from the Valley whom she met while serving as a judge on Indian Idol.
“I remember that she sang very well. If there was even one such talent, I am sure there are many more talented people here. All the best to them,” she said.
