Shazia Shah | Kashmir Pen
Srinagar, June 25: The much-anticipated bilingual feature film Harmukh, hailed as the first collaborative cinematic project between Kashmir and Karnataka, had its grand premiere today at INOC Srinagar. The screening drew an enthusiastic and distinguished gathering of Kashmir’s film and cultural fraternity.
The event was graced by Dr. Farooq Abdullah, who attended as the Chief Guest. In his address, he lauded Harmukh as a timely and much-needed artistic bridge between two rich cultures. “This film is not just a creative achievement but a symbol of unity in a fractured world,” he said, emphasizing the role of art in transcending geographical and ideological boundaries.
The premiere saw the presence of prominent Kashmiri filmmakers and cultural stalwarts including Mushtaq Bala, Zamir Ashie, Tariq Javid, and Mushtaq Ali Ahmad Khan, all of whom acknowledged the film’s fresh narrative and nuanced storytelling. Adbi Markaz Kamraz President M. Amin Bhat and celebrated music director Waheed Jeelani were also among the attendees.
Presented by 4 Chinar Cinemax, Harmukh is directed and shot by Ashok Kumar K, and jointly produced by Ashok Kumar Cyshap, Mushtaq A. Wani, Masarat Bashir, and Ayash Arif. The screenplay by MS Ramesh flows seamlessly across languages and landscapes, supported by a cast that includes T.S. Nagabharana, Ayash Arif, Sitha Kote, Anju Mattoo, Isha Sharma, Sonal N., and G.M. Wani among others.
At its core, Harmukh tells the story of Amar, an archaeologist from Karnataka, and Aadil, a warm-hearted local from Kashmir. Their evolving friendship — set against the breathtaking backdrop of Kashmir — becomes a symbol of cultural dialogue, mutual respect, and emotional resilience. The narrative explores how families from different regions come together, embracing each other’s traditions and overcoming personal and social prejudices. When tragedy strikes, the film turns inward, exploring themes of healing, loss, and collective strength.
Beyond its human story, Harmukh is a visual ode to Kashmir’s cultural richness — from its vibrant music to its unparalleled hospitality, from its scenic splendour to its timeless spiritual ethos. Through compelling storytelling and authentic portrayal, the film manages to be both emotionally intimate and thematically grand.
With Harmukh, the filmmakers have offered not just a cinematic experience but a cultural dialogue — one that holds up the power of art to unite, heal, and elevate. It is a testament to what can be achieved when storytelling rises above borders and binaries.
Kashmir Pen congratulates the entire team behind Harmukh for this landmark contribution to regional and national cinema.
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