Red carpet premiere of Kashmiri Productions UK latest film

Zafar Iqbal, actor and filmmaker

Local film company Kashmiri Productions UK is rolling out the red carpet next week for a special premiere of the company’s latest film, ‘England, Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir’.

The film – which aims to change people’s ‘negative’ perceptions of Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir – sees a man from Rochdale take a trip to his forefathers’ homeland to show the world his identity, language, culture, people, places, the vibes and a touch of Islam.

Shot using iPhone and Samsung, the 45-minute production features music by international singers such as Bonafide (Maz & Ziggy), Asif K, Sabir Mirza, Tabish Iqbal, Zafi Allah Loak and Hassan Javaid.

Zafar Iqbal, actor and filmmaker, said “I am very passionate about this feature film project as it’s very close to my heart due to the nature of the storyline.

“This is the first film where I got emotional while doing the voiceovers. This is the perfect time to release the film as Hajj, Eid and Pakistan Independence Day is just around the corner plus we all have just celebrated Queens’s Platinum Jubilee too.

“This project also will promote Pahari, Punjabi and Urdu languages as well as England, Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir. This is a visual treat for people who love England, Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir.

“This entertaining film is a great advert and promotional tool for our three beloved countries. Above all, it’s a beautiful and peaceful message to the world delivered within 45 minutes and 27 seconds. The film was shot on iPhone and Samsung.

“Everyone worked on the film on a volunteer basis and overall, I would like to thank everyone for their support, association and participation.”     

Saba Andleeb, chairperson, Kashmiri Productions UK, said “When we saw the finished product, we had a group meeting and it was decided that we want to show this to the people. We are set up to promote our culture and this fits the bill just perfectly.

“I hope everyone enjoys it as much as we did at the test screening. It will also be lovely to see people post Covid-19. We are expecting a full house Inshallah so if anyone wants to attend the premiere and dinner then please contact us.”

The idea of local graduates, Saba Andleeb and Zafar Iqbal, Kashmiri Productions UK is a not-for-profit local film production organisation, set up in 2018 to produce educational and entertainment projects that benefit wider communities.

The film premieres at Reel Cinema, Rochdale, at 6pm on Thursday 7 July.

To register your interest in attending please contact Zafar on 07730 004 498 or email mrzi@hotmail.co.uk.