Srinagar, July 9 (Agency) Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said cinema is not just about entertainment but a powerful tool for social change. Lt Governor Sinha said this while releasing the book titled “The Swinging 70s: The Stars, Style and Substance in Hindi Cinema” here. The Lt Governor congratulated the editors Nirupama Kotru and Shantanu Ray Chaudhuri and publisher Om Books for bringing out such an excellent book. “Cinema is not just about entertainment and business. It is a powerful tool for social change”, the Lt Governor. He said through path-breaking commercial films and famous works of parallel cinema, Indian filmmakers have tried to strike a balance between entertainment and social responsibility. He said “it reflects cultural ethos and have always played an important role in nation-building”, the Lt Governor said. He said the book will act as a gateway for the readers to revisit the 70s era of Hindi Cinema. Speaking on the special bond Jammu Kashmir shares with the majestic world of cinema, the Lt Governor said the films and theatre have always played a key role in socio-economic transformation.
He also highlighted the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir administration to revive the film ecosystem in the Uninon Territory. “The filmmakers are returning to the valley. The rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, world class facilities and augmented film-related infrastructure have positioned Jammu Kashmir as the most favourite film shooting destination,” the Lt Governor said. He said that J&K Film Policy has created a vibrant film ecosystem in the Union Territory and administrative assistance to ease film making in Jammu Kashmir by setting up Single Window Cell to grant permission for shooting films, preferably within 2 to 4 weeks. The revival of film shooting and return of cinema halls have created entrepreneurial opportunities for the talented youth of Jammu Kashmir. “We are hopeful of attracting investment in Jammu Kashmir through the film industry to generate greater job creation and it will also play a major role in promoting tourism”, he added. On the occasion, the Lt Governor called upon the people to support the government in its efforts to build a peaceful and prosperous Jammu Kashmir.