By State Correspondents Bureau • Srinagar • Published: September 12, 2026
Lauding the Valley’s peerless hospitality and scenic grandeur, the Oscar-winning maestro expresses a keen desire to stage a live musical performance in Kashmir and calls upon filmmakers to reflect the region’s peace.
SRINAGAR: Celebrated music composer and Oscar laureate AR Rahman on Saturday showered rich praise on Kashmir’s breathtaking natural landscapes and warm hospitality, expressing fervent hope that the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) blossoms into one of the country’s marquee cinematic galas.
Applauding the initiative, Rahman described hosting an international film festival in Kashmir as a deeply “commendable” step that offers a vibrant platform for audiences and cinephiles worldwide to witness the beauty, culture, and artistic energy of the Valley firsthand.
“The past is past, and the future is bright. We must present Kashmir positively through films and music.”
— AR Rahman, Music Maestro
The music icon emphasized that creators naturally draw artistic energy from the tranquil vistas of the Valley, urging the creative community to bring the region’s natural serenity and harmony to global screens.
Key Highlights of Rahman’s Interaction
- Global Stage for IFFJK: Commended the maiden festival edition as a “great opening,” wishing it becomes India’s finest film carnival.
- Valley Concert on the Cards: Confirmed ongoing discussions to return soon for a live musical concert in Kashmir.
- Rockstar Nostalgia: Recalled sampling authentic Kashmiri folk vocals by local women for the landmark soundtrack.
- Positive Storytelling: Urged filmmakers and lyricists to showcase the tranquility and vibrant spirit of the region.
Sharing his future aspirations for the region, Rahman revealed that he recently visited Kashmir for a commercial film shoot and is actively exploring avenues to stage a live concert in the Valley. “We have some plans, and we are talking. Hopefully, I want to come and perform here,” he said with optimism.
Walking down memory lane, the maestro reflected on his deep creative connection with Kashmir during the production of the 2011 blockbuster Rockstar. He recalled how local folklore directly enriched his compositions: “I came here for Rockstar. I recorded the ladies singing folk songs, and we used it in the soundtrack. We want to come back and do even more things here.”
Extending his full backing to the festival organizers, Rahman described IFFJK as a “great opening” and envisioned it scaling new heights on the global cultural map. “I wish Kashmir becomes the best festival of India,” he added.
In a heartwarming gesture that charmed attendees and mediapersons, the legendary composer signed off his interaction by humming a few soulful melodic lines dedicated to the spirit and beauty of Kashmir.
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