Pune: 2nd Edition of Sarhad’s J&K International Film Festival to Include Marathi Films, Set for January 2024 Launch
Pune, 21st October 2023: Preparations are in full swing for the 2nd edition of the Sarhad’s Jammu & Kashmir International Film Festival (JAKIFF), slated to begin on January 6, 2024. The highly-anticipated event follows the resounding success of its inaugural edition held in June 2022.
Mushtaaque Ali Ahmad Khan, the Festival Director of JAKIFF, expressed his optimism about the upcoming edition. “This time we plan to take this edition to the next level and hope that it will be a bigger success than the first edition,” Khan stated. The festival aims to continue building on the overwhelming response it received from filmmakers and audiences, particularly among the youth.
Marathi Films to be Showcased
In a groundbreaking decision that emphasizes the age-old friendship between the people of Kashmir and Maharashtra, this year’s festival will include Marathi films in the short film category. “The talented youth from the Marathi film industry will get recognition and a strong platform to showcase their films,” said Sanjay Nahar, founder of Sarhad.
Venue and Screening Details
The five-day festival will kick off with an inaugural function at the auditorium of the S. M. Joshi Foundation. Film screenings will take place at the Auditorium of the National Film Archives of India.
Eligibility and Genres
Films or music videos of any duration and genre are welcome, as long as they meet specific criteria related to Jammu & Kashmir—be it the subject matter, filming location, or main cast. The festival will include a competitive section restricted to films or music videos produced after December 31, 2020. Additionally, Maharashtra-produced films will also be considered in the genres of short fiction films (up to 45 mins) and short documentary films (up to 45 mins).
Submission Deadlines
The final date for submissions is November 30, 2023, with a late deadline (and accompanying late fee) of December 7, 2023.
This festival not only aims to provide a platform for budding filmmakers but also strengthens the cultural ties between the states of Jammu & Kashmir and Maharashtra. It promises to be an event that transcends regional boundaries, celebrating the rich tapestry of Indian cinema.
