Home » Bollywood returns again to the ‘paradise’ of Kashmir – The New Indian Express

Bollywood returns again to the ‘paradise’ of Kashmir – The New Indian Express

by Joe Bourn

SRI NAGAR: Kashmir has given us some of the most memorable cinematic wonders from Bollywood. From Kashmir ki Kali and Jungli to the recent Raazi and Bajrangi Bhaijaan, the ‘heaven on earth’ has enthralled everyone with its grasslands, high altitude passes, dense forests and snow-capped peaks. Among the scenic locations spread across J&K, Gurez Valley was an exception in shooting preferences. Not anymore now.

Eminent director Onir has roped in Gurez for Chahiye Thoda Pyaar. The shooting is going on and it is going to be the first film to be shot in Gurez, which is located near the Line of Control in Bandipora in north Kashmir. Not long ago, shelling and firing between Indian and Pakistani troops was almost routine in Gurez Valley. February marked a significant change last year. as the guns fell silent after an agreement between the two sides to abide by the November 2003 ceasefire pact.

This led the authorities to open the Gurez Valley for tourism. So, once a preferred penetration route is now the filmmakers’ choice for filming. “Gurez is a very beautiful place and no Hindi film has been shot here. I am very happy to be the first one to shoot here,” said Onir. “There is nothing more encouraging than fulfilling a dream. Somehow impossible is not a word when you have so many beautiful people supporting you to fulfill your dream/need (sic),” Onir tweeted.

Actor Akash, who is based in Kochi in Kerala, said that they are shooting in Gurez, Bakhtoor and Bandipora. “It’s a wonderful place. Honestly, I can’t understand the beauty of the place. I don’t think words or even pictures can define the beauty of this place,” says Akash. The union territory administration unveiled its film policy last year, promising various incentives to filmmakers, such as subsidy for shooting feature films, serials, web series and documentaries.

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