Bollywood Returns To Srinagar: ‘Ground Zero’ Premieres In Kashmir After 38 Years

In a landmark event, Ground Zero became the first Bollywood film in 38 years to host its premiere in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

The highly anticipated screening took place on Friday evening at the newly opened Inox theatre, drawing attention from across the country and rekindling the Valley’s long-lost connection with Indian cinema.

Lead actor Emraan Hashmi, who stars as a Border Security Force (BSF) commandant in the action thriller, returned to Srinagar for the premiere.

Expressing his excitement, Hashmi called the event a ‘symbolic moment’ that signals a renewed cinematic journey for Kashmir.

“This is a positive step for the people of Kashmir. I hope more films are shot here,” he said, also praising the warmth and hospitality of the locals. “Kashmiris are gracious and respectful. I always wanted to return, and I’m glad to be back.”

Film Inspired By A Real BSF Mission

Ground Zero, directed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar, tells the compelling story of a real-life BSF mission set in the Kashmir Valley.

The film further marks Emraan Hashmi’s first role as a uniformed officer, portraying Commandant Narendra Nath Dhar.

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Sai Tamhankar plays his on-screen wife, adding emotional depth to the high-stakes storyline.

According to Excel Entertainment, which produced the film, Ground Zero explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and resilience in a region often at the heart of national security narratives.

Industry Icons Join The Premiere In Srinagar

The premiere brought a host of Bollywood luminaries to the Valley.

Alongside Hashmi and Tamhankar, director Deoskar and producers Ritesh Sidhwani, Dolly Sidhwani, and Farhan Akhtar attended the event.

Shibani Dandekar, co-producer Arhan Bagati, and several key members of the production team also made their presence felt, walking the red carpet at the special screening held exclusively for BSF personnel.

Notably, the film industry has largely stayed away from Kashmir for decades due to political and security concerns.

However, Friday’s premiere indicated a significant shift, one that film professionals hope will pave the way for more productions and events in the region.

Industry Hopes For More Filmmaking In The Valley

Speaking at the event, Hashmi emphasised the need to showcase Kashmir’s beauty and culture through film.

He further expressed hope that other filmmakers would follow suit, choosing the Valley not only for shooting but also for significant industry events like premieres and screenings.

“With the trailer already sparking anticipation, all eyes are on director Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar to see how this gripping story unfolds on the big screen,” Excel Entertainment said in a statement.

Set To Hit Theatres Nationwide

Produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under the banner of Excel Entertainment, Ground Zero also includes co-producers Kassim Jagmagia, Vishal Ramchandani, Sundeep C Sidhwani, Arhan Bagati, Abhishek Kumar, Nishikant Roy, and Talisman Films.

The film is scheduled for a nationwide release on April 25, promising a powerful narrative grounded in real-life heroism.