Srinagar, April 27 -- There was a time when Kashmir wasn't just a location - it was a character. Songs floated over Dal Lake, shikaras carried stories, and every snow-clad slope was a cinematic metaphor. From Kashmir Ki Kali to Jab Jab Phool Khile, the Valley wasn't marketed - it was desired.

Today, Kashmir is sold in tourism brochures. but avoided in production meetings. Why?

Because filmmaking is not about beauty. It is about predictability, logistics, cost, and control - four things Kashmir still struggles to offer.

Here are nine uncomfortable truths.

No matter how many statements are issued, one advisory from a foreign embassy or one viral clip of unrest undoes years of PR. A filmmaker does not ask, "Is Kashmir safe today?" He ask...