Raj Babbar, during his visit to Gulmarg, reaffirmed that he has never felt unsafe in Kashmir, calling it a land of love, peace, and warmth.
By: Javid Amin | 05 November 2025
Kashmir’s Cinematic Comeback: From Silence to Spotlight
Six months after the Baisaran attack in Pahalgam (April 22, 2025), film cameras are rolling again in Kashmir. The picturesque Aru Valley near Pahalgam — framed by pine forests, crystal streams, and snow-dusted meadows — is hosting a Tollywood (South Indian) film crew, signaling the long-awaited revival of the Valley’s film scene.
For locals, it’s more than a film shoot. It’s a symbol of recovery — proof that Kashmir’s spirit and creativity cannot be silenced.
“After the Pahalgam attack, most crews cancelled schedules. But now, we’re back and hopeful,”
said Umer Yousuf (S.K. Sam), a local casting director working with Ahmihasto Film Productions, alongside Danish Khan.
They’ve been filming for over 12 days, supported by the government’s improved security arrangements.
“This project has revived the economy here — hoteliers, ponywallas, and taxi operators are smiling again,” Umer added.
The Director’s Vision: Kashmir Beyond Headlines
Film director Vimal Krishna, known for his emotionally rich Telugu comedies, shared that the story needed a setting both introspective and breathtaking.
“The movie is about an overthinker. I wanted beauty that mirrors reflection — and Kashmir offered that effortlessly,” he said.
“When we came here in July, we found it perfectly safe. One incident shouldn’t define an entire place.”
Cast in Awe of Kashmir’s Magic
Malayalam actor Merit Philips, portraying a Kashmiri girl in the film, said,
“The hospitality here is incredible. I feel safe and loved. Wearing the Kashmiri Tila Pheran made me feel part of this culture.”
Her co-star Rag Mohar, playing a tourist in love with a local, added,
“The atmosphere, the beauty, the people — it’s pure joy to shoot here.”
Economic Lifeline for Locals
For Kashmir’s tourism sector, the return of film crews is a revival story in itself.
“Even one shoot brings business to hundreds,” said Mohammad Yousuf, a shopkeeper in Pahalgam. “It’s not just cinema—it’s survival.”
Snowfall Transforms Sonamarg & Gulmarg into Winter Wonderlands
As cameras rolled in Aru Valley, Kashmir’s winter curtain lifted on November 4, 2025, when the first snowfall graced Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Razdan Top, and Doodhpathri.
According to the Meteorological Department, light to moderate snow covered the highlands, while Srinagar and plains received rain, signaling the start of the Valley’s winter season.
| Location | Snowfall Recorded |
|---|---|
| Sonamarg | ~2 inches |
| Gulmarg & Pir Ki Gali | 1–2 inches |
| Sinthan Pass & Sadhna Top | 5–6 inches |
“It’s like stepping into a postcard,” said a Delhi tourist in Gulmarg. “Snow, pine trees, and warmth — everything you dream of in winter.”
Hotels in Gulmarg and Sonamarg reported a spike in inquiries within hours. JKL Travels noted a 20% rise in winter bookings, especially for skiing, gondola rides, and honeymoon stays.
Sonamarg’s Silver Splendor
Known as the “Meadow of Gold,” Sonamarg now gleams white under early snow.
Local cafés brimmed with laughter as travelers posed against snow-capped ridges and Thajiwas Glacier trails.
“Everyone’s out taking photos. It feels festive,” said a local hotelier.
Travel Advisory:
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Weather to clear by Nov 5 afternoon
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Dry conditions expected till mid-November
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Roads to Sonamarg & Sinthan Pass open but slippery
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Travelers should check updates via KashmirTravels.in or the JKL helpline
Gulmarg’s Snowy Embrace & Raj Babbar’s Visit
As Gulmarg turned into a snow globe, veteran Bollywood actor and politician Raj Babbar arrived in the resort town — and his words melted hearts across the Valley.
Standing amid snow-covered slopes, Babbar reaffirmed his emotional connection with Kashmir, saying,
“I have never felt unsafe or terrorised here. People greet you with smiles and love — and that love has never decreased.”
Raj Babbar’s Nostalgic Return
Babbar reflected on his cinematic journey through Kashmir, recalling how from 1980 to 1997, nearly every film he worked in had scenes shot in the Valley, including classics like Armaan and Aapas Ki Baat.
“Kashmir shaped my career. The beauty, the people, the culture — they’re a part of my story,” he said.
A Message of Peace, Warmth, and Kashmiriyat
In his Gulmarg address, Babbar shared a moving statement:
“Kashmiriyat is another name for Insaniyat. This land represents love, peace, and emotional richness.”
He praised the local administration, particularly the Gulmarg Development Authority, for maintaining the resort’s beauty and ensuring safety for tourists and film crews.
“The officials and locals deserve credit for keeping this heaven intact,” Babbar noted.
His heartfelt endorsement arrives as the region’s tourism and film sectors regain vibrancy — blending nostalgia with optimism.
Picture-Perfect Kashmir: The Crown of Winter
Gulmarg’s ski slopes and Sonamarg’s snowy ridges are now buzzing with joy — honeymooners, filmmakers, photographers, and families exploring the Valley’s serenity. Gondola rides, frozen meadows, and steaming cups of kehwa by fireplaces define the current mood.
“There’s peace in every flake of snow,” said a young traveler from Mumbai. “You come here once — and you leave a piece of your heart behind.”
Plan Your Dream Winter in Kashmir
From cinema shoots in Aru Valley to Raj Babbar’s soulful return to Gulmarg, Kashmir’s story this winter is one of hope, beauty, and belonging.
Experience it with JKL Travels — Kashmir’s most trusted travel company — offering curated winter holiday packages, honeymoon tours, adventure trips, and film location assistance.
Also explore travel updates and snow advisories at KashmirTravels.in.
Top Winter Experiences:
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Gondola rides in Gulmarg
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Snow trekking in Sonamarg
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Shikara rides in frozen Dal Lake
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Cinematic walks in Pahalgam & Aru Valley
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Cultural immersion — Wazwan, saffron, crafts & music
Kashmir: Where Cinema Meets Snow, and Hearts Find Home
As Tollywood returns, snowflakes fall, and artists like Raj Babbar lend their voices of love — Kashmir stands tall once more, shining with timeless grace and unbroken spirit.
“Kashmir is not just a destination — it’s an emotion,” said a local guide watching the snowfall in Gulmarg.
“And emotions never fade.”
