“Aatish-e-Tilism” Lights Up Kashmir World Film Festival with a Stirring Message on Drug Addiction

Srinagar, Nov 3, KNT: On Day 3 of the fifth edition of Kashmir World Film Festival, a pertinent documentary on Kashmir’s battle against drug addiction, Aatish-e-Tilism, made by Director Anil Kumar, was showcased in the presence of a packed auditorium in Srinagar’s Tagore Hall.

The 16-minute documentary delves into Kashmir’s united fight against drugs that has created havoc in the lives of scores of adolescents and ripped families apart.

The screening stirred deep emotions among audience members, from locals who have witnessed the crisis first-hand, to visiting dignitaries who experienced a moving insight into one of the valley’s most pressing concerns.

The documentary was lauded by the audience and jury alike for understanding the crux of the issue and dealing with the subject sensitively, while not shying away from the truth. The documentary also brought to the audience critical work done by NGOs like Chotay Taray and local administration alike to rehabilitate youngsters in the grips of addiction.

Made by journalist and filmmaker Anil Kumar alongside Turkish filmmaker Ozge Uyar, Aatish-e-Tilism maps these collective efforts and brings out the stories of the people behind them. Through the film, the appeal of the people on the ground, whether it is a survivor or an activist, remains the same: stay as far away from the reins of drugs as possible, and if you are grappling with addiction, always ask for help. [KNT]