Srinagar, Sept. 6 -- Actor Shafi Qureshi has welcomed Jammu and Kashmir's first government-led international film festival, saying the event would provide much-needed exposure to local filmmakers and help create opportunities for artists across the region.

International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) 2026, organised by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) is scheduled to be held from September 7 to 10.

Qureshi said film festivals are not new to Kashmir and highlighted the significance of the government's involvement in the latest initiative.

"As far as film festivals are concerned, the trend has existed in Kashmir for several years. Many people organize them privately, and they do so very well. However,...