Kashmiri-Kannada Movie ‘ Harmukh’ captivates audience in Srinagar, Baramulla
Actors say the film’s cross-cultural story resonates deeply with viewers
By: Our Special Correspondent
Srinagar: The Kashmiri-Kannada film ‘Harmukh’ has struck an emotional chord with audiences in Srinagar and Baramulla, where special screenings witnessed packed halls and enthusiastic applause. The movie, which explores themes of identity, tradition, and hope, has proven that good storytelling transcends language and regional boundaries.
Lead actor Raghav Shetty, who plays the central role, said he was humbled by the warm reception here.
“When we made Harmukh, we thought it would speak primarily to Kannada audiences. But watching people in Srinagar and Baramulla connect with it so deeply shows that emotions need no translation.”
Actress Meghana Raj, who portrays a young woman navigating personal and social struggles, said she was touched by the feedback.
“People came to me after the screening and said they cried with my character. That kind of response tells us we’ve done justice to the story. As an actor, this is all I could hope for.”
Veteran actor Shivraj Kumar, who plays a fatherly figure, added, “This movie is rooted in Kannada culture, but the message is universal — love, sacrifice, and resilience. That’s why audiences everywhere can relate. I could see people wiping their tears at the climax.”
Supporting actor Anant Nag said, “I have acted in many films, but Harmukh felt different because of the way it binds tradition with modern dilemmas. To see Kashmiris appreciate it makes me proud of this collaboration.”
Child actor Ananya, who earned a standing ovation for her performance, said, “It was my first time acting, and to see people clapping for me in a place so far from home feels magical. I will never forget this day.”
Producer and lead actor Ayash Arif described the film as a cultural bridge. “Harmukh is a dream, a bridge and a bond connecting two vibrant regions of India — Kashmir and Karnataka. At its heart, the film is a tribute to unity, empathy and the power of human connection. Kashmir and Karnataka are poles apart in culture, but we tried to weave both into this film.”
Audience members, too, were vocal about their appreciation. Shabir Ahmad, a college student from Baramulla, said, “Even though we didn’t understand every word, the emotions hit us hard. The visuals and expressions told the story better than language could.”
Nusrat Jahan, a Srinagar resident, remarked, “The mother’s character reminded me of my own mother’s struggles. This is why the film feels personal despite being in multiple languages.”
Another viewer, Farooq Lone, said, “We always thought South Indian movies were about action and dance, but Harmukh showed us a different side — a story that makes you think and feel. It’s cinema at its purest.”
At the end of both screenings, the halls echoed with applause and cheers, with many calling the film “a bridge of emotions between Kashmir and Karnataka.”
