At the recent TOI Dialogues Uttarakhand, celebrated lyricist and chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), Prasoon Joshi, spoke passionately about the importance of staying true to one's cultural roots, particularly in the context of Uttarakhand's growing film and creative industries. Known for his innovative approach, Joshi shared his thoughts on how the local culture and talent can play a pivotal role in shaping Uttarakhand’s identity in the film world.
Joshi, who has made significant contributions to Indian cinema and advertising, reflected on his connection to Uttarakhand. He expressed his gratitude for being invited to the dialogue, stating, "They often talk about someone who is the son of the soil, who is sitting in Bombay (Mumbai) and should be contributing. I am thankful for the opportunity to do so."
Promoting Uttarakhand as a Film HubA key part of the discussion at the event revolved around Uttarakhand's emerging status as a destination for film shoots. Joshi pointed out how the state has been making significant strides in attracting filmmakers, thanks to government initiatives like one-window clearance and enhanced facilities. He noted that this growth was already visible, saying, "We were discussing the film policy... shooting of films in Uttarakhand has already started and is increasing."
Joshi also highlighted the region’s natural beauty and the gentleness of its people, which, combined with their inherent talent, positions Uttarakhand as a promising 'hub for cinema'. However, he emphasised the need for continuous efforts to further develop the film industry in the state.
Preserving Cultural AuthenticityOne of the most poignant aspects of Joshi’s chat was his focus on preserving Uttarakhand’s cultural heritage amidst the rapid growth of modern media. He drew an analogy between the state’s delicate culture and a "Bhasuri" (flute), saying, "The culture here is as delicate as Bhasuri. We will have to make continuous efforts to ensure that it does not get lost in the noise."
He also addressed the local community, emphasising that Uttarakhand’s culture is a responsibility that must be embraced. He urged the youth of Uttarakhand to find their "authentic voice" and contribute to the state’s cultural narrative. Joshi warned that sometimes local traditions are seen as a hindrance, but they are actually essential for maintaining a unique identity in a rapidly globalising world.
Sharing his vision for the future, the lyricist concluded by calling for a balance between innovation and cultural preservation. He urged continuous efforts to keep the state's cultural voice alive, saying that while development is crucial, it should not come at the cost of losing the unique elements that define the region.
