In the quiet town of Sopore, North Kashmir, where creative opportunities are often scarce and filmmaking remains an unfamiliar dream for many, Mohsin Riyaz Shah has emerged as a remarkable exception — a self-made filmmaker who turned his passion into a thriving career.
Armed with a diploma in Filmmaking from the Delhi College of Photography, Mohsin’s journey began in 2017, when he first started experimenting with flagship cameras. What began as curiosity soon evolved into a profession — and since 2020, he has been working full-time in the visual arts industry, balancing technical mastery with creative storytelling.
Over the years, Mohsin has built an impressive portfolio that includes brand campaigns for Lammer, Jawa, and Haldiram’s India, as well as government projects for the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). His work as Director of Photography (DoP) and filmmaker spans corporate short films, advertisements, and music videos, many of which have garnered attention for their striking visuals and authentic narratives.
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Notably, Mohsin has directed and shot corporate films for Khayber Cements (Kashmir) and collaborated with top advertising agencies across India. His expertise also extends beyond national borders — having worked internationally as Assistant DoP on a documentary for the NBA.
Closer to home, he has partnered with renowned Kashmiri artist Babar Mudasir, bringing regional music videos to life with cinematic flair and emotional depth.
Speaking about his journey, Mohsin reflects, “Being a filmmaker in Sopore isn’t easy. The exposure is limited, opportunities are rare, and people are still unaware of the real depth of cinema. But I never gave up. Despite the challenges, I pursued filmmaking, completed my diploma, and kept pushing forward.”
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From a place where resources and recognition are limited, Mohsin’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and determination. His ability to work with some of the biggest global brands despite the odds is proof that passion can indeed rise above circumstance.
As he continues to explore new visual frontiers, Mohsin Riyaz Shah stands as an inspiration for young creators from Kashmir — proving that no matter where you come from, your vision can find its place on the world stage.