Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today released a book titled “The Swinging 70s: The Stars, Style and Substance in Hindi Cinema,” edited by Ms. Nirupama Kotru and Shantanu Ray Chaudhuri, in Srinagar.
In his address, the Lt Governor congratulated the editors and publisher, Om Books, for their excellent work. “Cinema is not just about entertainment and business. It is a powerful tool for social change. Through path-breaking commercial films and famous works of parallel cinema, our filmmakers have tried to strike a balance between entertainment and social responsibility. It reflects cultural ethos and has always played an important role in nation-building,” he said.
He expressed that the book will serve as a gateway for readers to revisit the 70s era of Hindi Cinema. Speaking on the special bond that Jammu and Kashmir shares with the cinematic world, the Lt Governor highlighted the role of films and theatre in socio-economic transformation. He also underscored the efforts of the UT Administration to revive the film ecosystem in J&K.
“The filmmakers are returning to the valley. The rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, world-class facilities, and augmented film-related infrastructure have positioned Jammu and Kashmir as the most favorite film shooting destination,” he said.
The Lt Governor also mentioned that the J&K Film Policy has created a vibrant film ecosystem in the UT, with administrative assistance to ease filmmaking in Jammu and Kashmir by setting up a Single Window Cell to grant permission for shooting films, preferably within 2 to 4 weeks.
He added that the revival of film shooting and the return of cinema halls have created entrepreneurial opportunities for the talented youth of Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed hope that the film industry would attract investment to generate greater job creation and promote tourism.
On this occasion, the Lt Governor called upon the people to support the government’s efforts to build a peaceful and prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.
“The Swinging 70s” brings together a collection of essays that celebrate the myriad dimensions of the 70s era – the fashion, the music, the different genres of films, the iconic stars, and the unheard stories behind the scenes.The event was attended by Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; RR Swain, DGP; Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department; Suresh Kumar Gupta, Principal Secretary Culture Department; senior officials, editors, and publishers of the book, eminent literary personalities, and a large gathering of art and film lovers.
