Early Times Report
JAMMU, June 30: The 5th Edition of the Jammu Film Festival (JFF) has received an overwhelming global response, firmly establishing Jammu as an emerging destination on the international film festival circuit.
With 177 film submissions from 35 countries received well before the submission deadline, the festival has witnessed its strongest international response yet, reaffirming the growing reputation it has built over the past five editions.
Jammu Film Festival has transformed from a bold cultural initiative into one of North India's most recognised international film festivals, playing a significant role in positioning Jammu as an emerging destination on the global festival calendar.
Scheduled to be held on 28-29 September 2026 in Jammu, the festival is jointly presented by Vomedh and Koshurwood Studio, and is expected to bring together filmmakers, artists, students, cinema enthusiasts and cultural ambassadors from across India and abroad.
The entries received so far include 130 Short Films, 35 Documentaries and 17 Feature Films, representing diverse voices, cultures and cinematic traditions from across the world. With submissions remaining open until 31 July 2026, the organisers expect the final participation to grow significantly.
The festival has also begun receiving confirmations from international delegates, with filmmakers and festival representatives from the United States expected to attend this year's edition. In addition, discussions are underway with international cultural performers from Singapore, who are expected to participate in the festival's cultural programme, further enhancing its global character.
Over the past five editions, Jammu Film Festival has steadily evolved from a regional initiative into an internationally recognised platform celebrating independent cinema, cultural dialogue and emerging storytellers. The festival has screened films from across the globe while showcasing the cultural richness and hospitality of Jammu & Kashmir to visiting filmmakers.
Speaking on the occasion, Festival Director Rakesh Roshan Bhat said:
"When we launched Jammu Film Festival, our dream was to place Jammu on the global map of cinema. Today, the response from filmmakers across 35 countries tells us that the world is not only noticing Jammu-it is choosing Jammu. Every edition has strengthened our credibility, and the fifth edition marks an important milestone in that journey."
Co-Festival Director Rohit Bhat added:
"This year's festival will not only celebrate outstanding international cinema but will also strengthen our commitment to nurturing local filmmaking. The introduction of the Rs 1,00,000 Best Local Production Award is a significant step towards encouraging filmmakers from Jammu & Kashmir to tell their stories with confidence and compete on international platforms."
Sanjeev Kak, representing Koshurwood Studio, the co-presenter of the festival, said:
"Koshurwood Studio is proud to partner with Jammu Film Festival at a time when it is gaining remarkable international recognition. Cinema has the power to build bridges between cultures, and festivals like JFF provide a world-class platform for creative voices from Jammu & Kashmir to connect with global audiences. We look forward to welcoming filmmakers from around the world to Jammu this September." |
