Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, Apr 18: Bollywood star Emraan Hashmi today expressed his delight at returning to Srinagar as he attended the red-carpet premiere of his upcoming film Ground Zero.
Describing the event as a “symbolic moment” for Kashmir, Emraan said it marked the beginning of a renewed cinematic journey in the Valley.
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The red carpet was rolled out at Inox here for the grand premiere of the Emraan Hashmi-starrer Ground Zero, Excel Entertainment’s much-anticipated action thriller based on a legendary BSF mission.
Marking the first film premiere in the Kashmir valley in 38 years, the event was a significant cultural moment and a proud occasion for both locals and the Border Security Force.
Leading actor Emraan Hashmi, who plays a BSF Commandant in the film, was joined by co-star Sai Tamhankar, director Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar, and producers Ritesh Sidhwani (accompanied by Dolly Sidhwani) and Farhan Akhtar (with Shibani Dandekar).
Co-producer Arhan Bagati and other members of the production team also walked the red carpet, making a spectacular entry for the special screening hosted for BSF personnel.
Set in Kashmir, Ground Zero is inspired by a real-life mission never before portrayed on screen.
Emraan Hashmi takes on the role of BSF Commandant Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey — marking his first portrayal of a military officer.
Sai Tamhankar plays the officer’s wife, bringing emotional depth to the story.
The event drew notable figures from the film industry, including actors, directors, and other dignitaries, who highlighted the cultural and emotional significance of the occasion.
Emraan emphasized that hosting a premiere in Srinagar after a long hiatus sends a hopeful message and urged other filmmakers to consider Kashmir as a venue for both shoots and screenings.
“This is a positive step for the people of Kashmir. I hope more films are brought here,” he said.
He also praised the warmth and generosity of the locals. “Kashmiris are gracious and respectful. I always wanted to return, and I’m glad to be back,” he added.
“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.
The film is produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under the banner of Excel Entertainment and co-produced by Kassim Jagmagia, Vishal Ramchandani, Sundeep C. Sidhwani, Arhan Bagati, Talisman Films, Abhishek Kumar, and Nishikant Roy.
Ground Zero is slated to hit theatres nationwide on April 25.
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