Ground Zero Movie Screening: Bollywood returned to Kashmir in a big way as Emraan Hashmi’s action film Ground Zero had its grand red carpet premiere in Srinagar on Friday evening, breaking a 38-year-long gap for Hindi film premieres in the Valley. This special screening at Inox Shivpora was also attended by BSF jawans, who were emotionally connected to the film’s story.
The film tells the powerful real-life story of BSF Commandant Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, who led a key mission to eliminate terrorist mastermind Ghazi Baba after the 2001 Parliament and Akshardham attacks. Directed by Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar and produced by Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar under Excel Entertainment, Ground Zero brings alive the bravery and sacrifices of the BSF, which usually doesn’t get the spotlight like the Indian Army or police forces in films.
Speaking at Lal Chowk, Emraan Hashmi said, “This is a very special moment not just for the film industry but for the people of Kashmir. The region is full of talent, love, and hospitality. It deserves more opportunities and visibility through cinema.”
Hashmi also spent nearly a month in Kashmir shooting for the film. “It was a wonderful experience. The people here are amazing and I hope more filmmakers come and shoot in this beautiful valley,” he said.
At the premiere, the film’s team including Emraan Hashmi, Sai Tamhankar, Farhan Akhtar, Shibani Dandekar, Ritesh and Dolly Sidhwani, and co-producers Arhan Bagati, Abhishek Kumar, and Nishikant Roy were present. A special screening was also arranged for BSF jawans, making the event even more emotional and meaningful.
Hashmi said on social media, “Ground zero touchdown. A landmark day: the first red carpet movie screening after 38 years in Srinagar. This is a special movie screening to honour BSF soldiers and their officers.”
Director Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar explained that Ground Zero is completely based on real events. “Dubey ji spent eight years in Kashmir. He was instrumental in taking down Ghazi Baba. It was a tough mission and he paid a heavy price for it, but he still smiles and says it was worth it for the nation.”
The director also shared why Emraan Hashmi was chosen for the lead role. “He has already shown his acting depth in films like Shanghai. I wanted someone new in an Army uniform who could bring real emotion to the screen,” Deoskar said.
Producer Farhan Akhtar also praised Kashmir and its people. “Kashmir is incredibly beautiful and being here is always special. I hope this premiere opens more doors for films in the Valley,” he said.
The film is set to release in cinemas across India on April 25, 2025. With its patriotic storyline and emotional depth, Ground Zero is being seen as not just a film, but a tribute to the sacrifices of the BSF.
Hashmi summed it up perfectly: “This is the first time a film has been made only for the BSF. Their story deserves to be told and seen. It’s a proud moment for us all.”
Ground Zero could mark the beginning of a new chapter for Bollywood in Kashmir, giving the region its long-overdue place back on the big screen.
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