J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday (September 8, 2026) watched the movie ‘Mirzapur’ at the Kashmir valley’s only functional multiplex, INOX at Srinagar’s Shivpora area along with its cast during the ongoing International Film Festival Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK), being held under the theme ‘Rang-e-Cinema’.

Mr. Abdullah was joined by the star cast of the movie, including Pankaj Tripathi, who plays the popular character of Kaleen Bhaiya, and Divyenndu, who portrayed the role of Munna Bhaiya in the hit ‘Mirzapur’ series. In a rare scene from Kashmir, Mr. Abdullah sat with the Valley’s film-enthusiast audiences to watch the movie.

“The presence of leading artistes and filmmakers in J&K would further strengthen the region’s association with cinema and contribute to building a vibrant film ecosystem in J&K,” said Mr. Abdullah, on the second day of the ongoing four-day film festival.

Mr. Abdullah highlighted the role of the actors of the movie and appreciated their contribution to Indian cinema.

“This is a good beginning. It provides an opportunity to outsiders to observe Kashmiriyat and local culture. It will also motivate filmmakers to make more films. There is great talent here,” said Mr. Tripathi.

Mr. Divyenndu asked local filmmakers to come forward and make films. “Locals need to watch these films. We all need to promote it,” said Mr. Divyenndu.

Kashmir saw closure of around 15 cinema halls in the 1990s. There were several attempts in the past to popularise cinema culture but failed. However, the first multiplex, INOX, in 2022 became the first such functional theatre after a gap of 23 years. Around 135 films are being screened from 41 countries during the film festival, including at INOX in Srinagar.