Lucknow: The two-day Uttar Pradesh International Film Conclave 2026 commenced on a grand note in Lucknow with a ceremonial lamp-lighting, marking the beginning of a major cultural and cinematic gathering. The event is being jointly organized by the Film Society of India and Uttar Pradesh Tourism.
The conclave has brought together prominent artists, filmmakers, and industry experts from across the country to deliberate on the future of cinema and its growing potential in Uttar Pradesh. Around 150 films from 11 states, spanning diverse genres, are being showcased during the event.
The chief guest, Brajesh Pathak, felicitated several noted personalities from the film industry, including Rajesh Jais, Aditya Srivastava, Zakir Hussain, Meenakshi Dixit, and Dheeraj Singh.
Addressing the gathering, Pathak highlighted the role of films in promoting India’s culture globally. He also pointed to the significant improvements in law and order and rising income levels in the state, adding that the upcoming film city in Noida is expected to reduce production costs and position Uttar Pradesh as a major hub for filmmaking.
Ramesh Mishra, President of the Film Society of India, emphasized the immense opportunities for film production in the state, calling the conclave “a new beginning.” Actor Aditya Srivastava described the platform as one that opens new avenues for artists.
Film producer and writer Amit Aryan remarked that Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a place where talent finds expression and recognition. Actress Meenakshi Dixit also expressed happiness over increasing opportunities for local artists.
Filmmaker Sohan Master stressed the need to promote the film industry on par with other sectors, while actor Rajesh Jais highlighted that cinema plays a vital role in preserving and promoting a city’s cultural identity. He also underlined the strong link between cinema and tourism, noting its positive impact on the economy.
Actor Zakir Hussain said the conclave would open new doors of opportunity and, through collective efforts, help Uttar Pradesh scale new heights in the film sector. Meanwhile, Bollywood actor Alok Porwal shared that he has trained thousands of artists and noted the active participation of people from the state in training initiatives.
Former DGP and event coordinator Suryakumar Shukla informed that the film Saket, based on the story of the Ram Temple construction, has been shot in Lucknow. He also referred to the state government’s vision of transforming Uttar Pradesh into a film hub, highlighting subsidies offered to filmmakers as a significant step in that direction.
Presiding over the event, FTII Vice Chancellor Dheeraj Singh stated that cinema is not merely a medium of entertainment but a confluence of technology and culture. He emphasized the importance of encouraging regional language cinema alongside Hindi films.
The event saw valuable contributions from organizers including Dr. Asif and Dr. Ravi Suryavanshi, while Dr. Alka Nivedan and Samreen efficiently conducted the proceedings.
The conclave is expected to serve as a vibrant platform for creative exchange, collaboration, and the promotion of Uttar Pradesh as a thriving destination for film production in India.
