Srinagar, August 2025 — In a landmark move set to reshape the cinematic landscape of Jammu & Kashmir, Bollywood’s rising star-producer Niraj Chauhan has joined forces with legendary Kashmiri filmmaker Hussein Khan of Seven Two Creations to launch initiatives aimed at uplifting local cinema and empowering Kashmiri talent.
A Collaboration with Vision
Hussein Khan, widely regarded as the pioneer of modern Kashmiri cinema, made history with Kashmir Daily (2017) — the first feature film directed in Kashmir to achieve a wide theatrical release in India. His production house, Seven Two Creations, further cemented its reputation with acclaimed films such as Lines (2021), which explored life along the Line of Control (LoC) and won praise at international film festivals.
Niraj Chauhan’s collaboration with Hussein Khan represents more than just a meeting of minds — it is a shared dream to promote Kashmiri artists, storytellers, and filmmakers while drawing the attention of mainstream Bollywood to the Valley’s untapped potential
Chauhan burst onto the film scene with The Secret of Devkaali, a supernatural thriller that signaled his bold artistic intent. His next feature, Last Hand Case, was shot extensively in Kashmir and featured notable local actors including Hussein Khan, Shahid Lateef, Ahmer Haider, Zeeya Sanam, Sanya Mir, and Yusuf Mir — making it one of the rare Bollywood productions to deeply embed regional participation both in front of and behind the camera.
Local Talent, National Platform
This August, Chauhan begins production on his new Kashmir-based project, Unforgettable, which will once again feature a core team of Kashmiri actors and crew.
Government Support: A Cinematic Catalyst
One of the driving forces behind the Valley’s cinematic resurgence is the proactive support of the Jammu & Kashmir government, which has introduced attractive subsidies and incentives for filmmakers shooting in the region.
The newly implemented film policy has streamlined processes for location permissions, ensured security facilitation, and offered financial grants — making Kashmir one of the most welcoming destinations for film production in India.
This renewed openness owes much to leaders like Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who has long advocated for the cultural revitalization of Kashmir and supported policies that laid the foundation for today’s film-friendly ecosystem.
Storytelling by Neha Mahendra Soni
Director-writer Neha Mahendra Soni, known for Last Hand Case, revealed that her work in Kashmir left a profound impact on her storytelling. Inspired by the Valley’s beauty and the dedication of its artists, she has shaped Unforgettable as a deeply authentic narrative rooted in Kashmiri culture.
Both Unforgettable and Last Hand Case reflect her creative partnership with Chauhan, and the upcoming release is expected to set new benchmarks for regional cinema.
Roadmap for Regional Growth
The strategic alliance between Niraj Chauhan and Hussein Khan is far from a one-off. Over the next few years, they plan to develop 8–10 films in Kashmir, focusing on:
- Discovering and mentoring Kashmiri talent
- Building sustainable local film infrastructure
- Telling authentic stories rooted in Kashmiri heritage
- Promoting tourism through cinematic storytelling
Hussein Khan: The Torchbearer of Kashmiri Cinema
A former journalist who transitioned to filmmaking in the 1990s, Hussein Khan has devoted his career to giving Kashmir its own voice in Indian cinema. His Seven Two Creations remains a cornerstone of the region’s cinematic identity.
A Future Built on Stories
“The collaboration between Niraj Chauhan and Hussein Khan is more than filmmaking — it’s about building a future for Kashmiri cinema,” said Chauhan. “With strong government backing, a nurturing creative environment, and a growing base of talent, Kashmir can become not just a shooting destination but a cradle of storytelling that resonates far beyond its borders.”
