Jammu, July 16, 2026 : After receiving widespread appreciation on the international stage, the Kashmiri-language short film “Tasrufdar: Djinns of Kashmir” is all set to make its much-awaited premiere in Srinagar later this month, marking its first public screening in Kashmir.
Written, directed and produced by Kapil Mattoo, the film is being described as far more than just a cinematic experience. It aims to initiate a meaningful conversation among Kashmiris about memory, loss, healing and reconciliation, inspired by the events surrounding the upheaval of 1990.
A Film Meant to Start Conversations
Speaking about the project, Kapil Mattoo described Tasrufdar as an emotional journey that seeks to bring long-suppressed feelings to the surface.
“It is an emotion for me. It is more than a film. I think it is a necessary conversation between two Kashmiris.”
Mattoo believes that although many Kashmiris displaced from the Valley have rebuilt their lives across India and abroad over the past three decades, the emotional scars remain.
“Whether someone lives in London, Jammu or Delhi, people may have moved on with life, but those emotions are still buried deep inside. We need to vent them out and unblock them.”
Srinagar Premiere After International Success
The film had its world premiere at the UK Asian Film Festival in London, where it received critical appreciation from audiences and critics alike.
Following its international success, the filmmakers are now preparing for its Srinagar premiere at INOX, expected later this month. Official dates are expected to be announced soon.
Mattoo expressed his desire to watch the film together with people from every community.
“I want to watch ‘Tasrufdar’ in Kashmir together with Kashmiris—including Kashmiri Muslims, Kashmiri Pandits and Sikhs. It is everyone’s story.”
Story Rooted in Kashmir’s Shared Heritage
Tasrufdar: Djinns of Kashmir blends Kashmiri folklore with deeply human emotions.
The film follows Mir, a middle-aged Kashmiri Muslim, who is haunted by the spirit of Shamboo Nath, his late father’s childhood friend and a Kashmiri Pandit. Nearly 35 years after the events of 1990, the two are brought together in a deeply emotional conversation between two chinar trees, exploring friendship, separation, grief, unanswered questions and the possibility of healing.
The narrative draws inspiration from the mystical concept of ‘Tasrufdar’ (Djinns) while incorporating the timeless Vakhs of the revered mystic poetess Lal Ded, celebrating Kashmir’s shared spiritual and cultural heritage.
Not About Giving Answers
Mattoo emphasized that the film does not attempt to provide definitive answers to the complex history surrounding the events of 1990.
Instead, it encourages viewers to reflect on their own experiences.
According to the filmmaker, every community in Kashmir has lived through history differently, and the film invites audiences to engage in dialogue rather than division.
“It is not mine. It belongs to everyone. It is a collective memory, collective grief and collective emotion.”
Entirely Made by Kashmiris
One of the film’s defining features is that it has been created entirely by Kashmiris.
Mattoo highlighted that:
- The screenplay is written in the Kashmiri language.
- The actors, technicians, musicians and background score are all from Kashmir.
- The project represents authentic Kashmiri storytelling created by local talent.
Cast and Crew
The film features an accomplished cast, including:
- Ashwath Bhat
- Bashir Lone
- Shafia Maqbool
- Aurooba Javed
- Mir Sarwar (also Associate Producer)
Key crew members include:
- Director, Writer & Producer: Kapil Mattoo
- Production: Mattoo Mania Productions
- In Association With: Walnut Creative Ideas Pvt. Ltd. and Safdar Arts
- Cinematography: Syed Ali
- Assistant Director & Data Manager: Umar Nisar
- Line Producer: Mir Momin
Continuing to Tell Kashmir’s Stories
Kapil Mattoo, who migrated from Kashmir in 1990 at the age of 14, said reconnecting with the Valley during the making of the web series “Tanaav” inspired him to tell authentic stories rooted in Kashmir’s lived experiences.
Following the international recognition of his earlier award-winning short film “Haaput (The Bear)”, Tasrufdar continues his effort to bring Kashmir’s folklore, memories and cultural heritage to audiences across India and around the world.
With its Srinagar premiere approaching, the film is expected to become more than a cinematic event—it hopes to serve as a platform for dialogue, empathy and reflection among the people of Kashmir.
Image Credit: Instagram – @kapilmattoo
