In a landmark moment for Indian cinema, Emraan Hashmi's film Ground Zero made history by premiering in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 18, 2025, marking the first Bollywood film to do so in nearly four decades. The special screening was held for Border Security Force (BSF) personnel, transforming the event into a heartfelt tribute to those who serve the nation.
The red carpet event, hosted at Inox in Srinagar's Shivpora area, was attended by key figures from the film, including lead actors Emraan Hashmi and Sai Tamhankar, director Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar, and producers Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar. Their presence, alongside the BSF jawans, infused the evening with a profound sense of pride and emotion.
Hashmi, who portrays BSF Commandant Narendra Nath Dhar Dubey, expressed his joy at returning to Kashmir, stating, "I feel happy to come back to Srinagar. It feels very nice. The weather is good here, it is better than Mumbai." He described the premiere as an important and symbolic moment for the region, emphasizing the local talent that contributed to the film. "There is a lot of talent here. A number of local actors were hired for the film. Their contribution to the film was important," he noted.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Kashmir Valley, Ground Zero dives into a high-stakes counter-terror mission from the early 2000s, inspired by the real-life heroics of Commandant Dubey. The film narrates the story of a BSF-led operation aimed at neutralizing terrorist mastermind Ghazi Baba, who was linked to significant terror attacks in India, including the 2001 Parliament attack and the Akshardham temple attack in 2002.
During an interaction with the press, Hashmi highlighted the film's significance, stating, "This is the first time a film has been made solely to honour the BSF. We have seen stories based on the Indian Army and police before, but Ground Zero is a tribute to BSF officers, their courage, and the sacrifices they have made for the country. That, in itself, is a significant milestone." He further emphasized the relevance of the story, calling it a "defining operation" in India's national security landscape.
The film's narrative unfolds around the mission that began planning in 2001 and was accomplished in 2003, aiming to eliminate the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad and its leader, Ghazi Baba. Hashmi's portrayal of a military character marks a new chapter in his career, as he has primarily played romantic roles in the past.
The premiere was not just a film launch but a celebration of service, sacrifice, and national pride. The event was attended by BSF personnel, who walked the red carpet alongside the film's cast and crew, creating a spectacular atmosphere filled with camaraderie and respect for those who serve in the armed forces.
Director Tejas Prabha Vijay Deoskar expressed his excitement about showcasing such an important story, stating that the film provides a platform for the often-overlooked narratives of the BSF. The film's production in Kashmir is seen as a positive step for the region, with Hashmi expressing hope for more films to be shot there, highlighting the graciousness and respect of the local people.
As anticipation builds for its release, the film's trailer has already generated significant buzz, promising an emotionally charged narrative that resonates with audiences across India. Ground Zero is set to hit theaters nationwide on April 25, 2025, and is expected to bring attention to the contributions of the BSF and the challenges faced by security forces in the region.
This premiere serves as a reminder of the power of cinema to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding, particularly in a region like Kashmir, which has been historically marked by conflict. By honoring the sacrifices of the BSF, Ground Zero aims to inspire a sense of national pride and appreciation for those who protect the country's borders.
In conclusion, Ground Zero represents a significant milestone not only for Bollywood but also for the people of Kashmir, offering a glimpse into their stories and struggles while celebrating the bravery of the BSF. As the film prepares for release, it stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of storytelling in shaping cultural narratives.
