‘Harmukh’: First ever Kashmiri-Kannada feature film launches in Jammu and Kashmir

The official launch of Harmukh, the first-ever feature film in both Kashmiri and Kannada languages, was held in Srinagar on Monday. The film’s trailer and songs were launched during the event. Ayush Arif, who plays the lead role, also bankrolls the film, with the story penned by renowned filmmaker Ashok Cashyap. T.S. Nagabharana, veteran filmmaker and recipient of 16 national and state awards is also part of the cast. Legendary Kashmiri singer, Wahid Jeelani, has composed the music for Harmukh.

Launch ceremony

At the event, chief guest Nasir Aslam Wani, advisor to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, emphasised the importance of sharing Kashmir’s authentic spirit with the world, PTI reported. “There is a tremendous need to portray the hospitality, warmth, and humanity of Kashmir to the global audience,” he said at the event, adding that Harmukh appears to do exactly that—"beautifully capturing the cultural richness and compassionate spirit that defines our land.”

Wani stressed that such cinematic initiatives act as cultural ambassadors, extending beyond mere storytelling. It offers a glimpse into the real Kashmir, through connection, creativity and care, he added.

He further mentioned that he was looking forward to Harmukh serving as a catalyst for the region’s tourism sector, a vital pillar of the local economy. “This endeavour will certainly prove blissful for our tourism industry and contribute to a more positive, inclusive narrative about our Valley,” Wani said.

A performance by the well-known folk artist, Fayaz Shilvati was showcased at the launch event.

Harmukh

A mountain located in central Kashmir’s Ganderbhal district, between the Sindh river to the south and Kishanganga river to the north serves as the inspiration for the title of the film. ‘Harmukh’ derived from Harmukuta, considered sacred in Hinduism, also means ‘the diadem of Hara (Shiva)’.

Harmukh conveys the message of friendship beyond borders. It is described as “a dream, a bridge, and a bond” between Kashmir and Karnataka, according to Arif. The film revolves around two families hailing from different cultures and their emotional journey, as they grow to understand and love each other. The spirit of unity between Kashmir and Karnataka is well portrayed in the story.

“At its heart, the film is a tribute to unity, empathy, and the power of human connection,” Arif said.

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