Srinagar 28 Oct : Following the highly encouraging theatrical run of Yaqza — The Awakening, I find myself at an important juncture in my filmmaking journey—a moment to pause, reflect, reassess priorities, and chart the course for the projects that lie ahead.
I must confess that Yaqza has changed many things for me, and in ways that are profoundly positive.
Conceived as Kashmir’s first experimental feature film, Yaqza — The Awakening was not merely an attempt to tell a story differently; it was an exploration of consciousness, perception, spirituality, and the possibilities of cinematic expression beyond conventional narrative structures. Taking such an unconventional film to theatres required conviction, perseverance, and a willingness to trust the audience’s capacity to engage with cinema that challenges familiar expectations.
The encouraging audience response, the enthusiasm witnessed during its theatrical screenings, and the conversations it has generated have reaffirmed my belief in the importance of artistic courage and independent filmmaking. More importantly, the journey has opened new perspectives, strengthened my resolve, and reinforced my confidence in pursuing cinema that remains uncompromising in its creative vision.
But every achievement must become the foundation for the next one.
As a filmmaker, I believe that consistency is as important as creativity. A successful film should not be an isolated accomplishment; it should mark the beginning of another phase of meaningful work. The real challenge is to sustain the momentum, maintain professional discipline, and continue creating films that aspire to excellence in their conception, execution, and artistic integrity.
I am therefore taking this opportunity to introspect, consolidate my creative priorities, and finalise the projects currently in my pipeline, particularly those that are approaching production. Their scheduling, development, and execution will be undertaken with renewed clarity and a stronger sense of purpose.
My commitment remains to quality over quantity, artistic integrity over convenience, and cinematic exploration over repetition. I aspire to build a body of work that is diverse in its themes and forms, yet consistent in its commitment to meaningful storytelling and uncompromising craftsmanship.
For me, filmmaking is not simply about completing one project and moving on to another. It is about evolving with every film, discovering new possibilities, taking calculated creative risks, and contributing, in whatever measure I can, to the growth of Kashmiri cinema.
Yaqza — The Awakening has been an important milestone, but I see it not as a destination, but as a point of departure.
The next chapter is already taking shape.
More stories. New cinematic territories. Greater creative challenges. And, above all, a sustained commitment to making films that matter.
The journey continues.
— Ali Emran
Filmmaker | Writer | Poet
Hot Ice Films, Kashmir
