The "Kashmir fashion show" riding on downturn in violence has turned out to be a big draw, triggering hopes among the Kashmiri youth of joining the national cultural mainstream in the coveted arenas of fashion, art and cinema.
Elaborating on the “The Kashmir Fashion Show” held at Srinagar’s Sheri Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Momim Mir, who steered the novel event said: “Our brothers and sisters have the capacity and talent to work in the fashion industry or film industry and there nothing wrong with the platform. This show is a small effort to give them a stage to showcase their talents.”
Talking about the prevailing notion that fashion is elitist and not in good taste, Ousheeba, a contemporary style designer said, "Fashion is not every time bad. It's all about clothes and a presentation of it.”
Pointing to stereotypes, Sara a performer, lamented that a stereotype has been established among women that modelling is not for them. "To break this typecast, this programme has been organised.” Sara observed.
Speaking in the same vein, another female participant said, "It is a great platform for us. The things we learn here today will help to grow as a model, especially the Kashmiri girls. It is really helpful. This is the first fashion show happening here."
The auditions for the fashion show were held in districts of the Kashmir Valley to find the local talent among youth. A total of 22 candidates were shortlisted to give a performance. The costumes were designed by local fashion designers. After seeing a good response, Mir is looking forward to organising the second edition of the Kashmir fashion show.
Umar Wani, who is professionally a Radio Jockey, but taught and judged ramp walk of the participants, said that they are planning to open an acting school in the Valley to provide a path for the film industry.
Interestingly, just recently Ehan Bhat, born and brought up in Kashmir, is all set to make his debut as hero in the upcoming film 99 Songs, which happens to be Oscar-winning composer AR Rahmans first film as a producer.
Also read: Budding Kashmir actor to debut in Bollywood’s ’99 Songs'
Examples like that of Bhat are not alone. Several talented individuals from the State are coming under spotlight. Notable among them include TV stars Hina Khan, Asim Riaz and Aly Goni, who became household names on Bigg Boss, as well as Danish Renzu. director of the much-feted new film The Illegal.
Talking about art and culture in the State, Bhat remarked: "Kashmir in itself is engrossed in art and culture. It is just the situations and conflicts that are there have dominated people, (preventing them) from following their dreams. But I think slowly everything is changing.”
99 Songs, the musical film features Ehan along with Edilsy Vargas and is slated to hit theatres on April 16. It is directed by Vishwesh Krishnamoorthy, and will be presented by Jio Studios, and produced by AR Rahman's YM Movies.
Meanwhile, another Kashmiri who is making waves in Indian and world cinema is Danish Renzu, whose The Illegal is grabbing attention both of critics and cinema lovers. The 35-year-old filmmaker spoke about his "conscious" decision to involve local Kashmiris in all future projects. He said: "There is a sense of responsibility when I say this. I want films as an industry to flourish in Kashmir. In my last film ('Half Widow', 2017), almost everyone, from writers to light-man, to camerapersons, were all Kashmiris. I am going to make sure that I continue this practice in future.”
Also read: The Illegal review: A tale of dashed American dream
The Indian Army besides keeping vigil over the law and order is contributing its bit to promote local culture and heritage. The forces launched its first community radio station "Radio Chinar" last month in Sopore of Baramulla district in North Kashmir. The aim was to bridge the gap between jawan and the local youth.
The Army Core Commander, Lt. General BS Raju speaking about this move, said, "The main aim of this new initiative is to get connected to the local youth directly and Radio has the ability to reach out to the people living in remotest parts and makes them aware of various schemes and programmes of the government."
