Challenges Faced While Filming Lamhaa in Kashmir

Filming Under Duress

Reflecting on the experience of shooting Lamhaa in Kashmir during a tumultuous period, the director shared that it was incredibly challenging due to the absence of a stable government, with the region under Governor's rule. The presence of prominent actors like Sanjay Dutt and Bipasha Basu added to the complexity of the situation.

Hostage Situation on Set

On the very first day of filming, the crew found themselves surrounded by a large crowd, estimated at eight to ten thousand people, who held them hostage for four hours. The locals demanded to see footage from the film, which was impossible to provide as they were shooting on film rather than digital. The director described being trapped in a room filled with a thousand people while chaos unfolded outside.

Shooting Amidst Curfews

The second day of shooting involved working during a curfew, which turned out to be surprisingly effective as there were no distractions. However, the situation quickly escalated when the crowd began chanting political slogans, leading to a near-riot and forcing the crew to halt production.

Tensions in Anantnag

On the third day, filming took place in Anantnag, where the crew faced interruptions due to a speech that incited local unrest. The army had to intervene, and the team was forced to wrap up quickly amidst rising tensions.

Sanjay Dutt's Impact

Shooting at Makhdum Sab Dargah with Sanjay Dutt created a stir among locals. The crew had limited time to film due to winter conditions and the threat of violence, prompting them to rush through scenes.

Constant Security Concerns

The director recounted the constant anxiety of completing shoots while under threat. There were reports of local militants observing the filming, which heightened the sense of danger. The atmosphere was fraught with tension, and the crew had to navigate a precarious situation while filming.

Bravery of the Cast

Both Bipasha Basu and Sanjay Dutt displayed remarkable courage by participating in the film. The director recalled a scene with Anupam Kher that had to be shot in a mere three minutes due to the unpredictable environment.

Casting Decisions

While discussing Bipasha Basu's casting, the director acknowledged that she did not fit the traditional image of a Kashmiri girl. However, she was the only actress willing to take on the role in such a risky location.

Reflections on the Film's Reception

Despite the challenges faced during production, Lamhaa did not achieve commercial success. The director noted that various factors contributed to its poor reception, including competition from other films and a lack of effective marketing.

Current Climate for Filmmaking in Kashmir

In light of recent events, the director expressed skepticism about the feasibility of shooting a film like Lamhaa in today's environment, given the prevailing nationalistic sentiments.