Syrian Filmmaker praises art and culture in NE Syria

The renowned filmmaker, actor, and theater director, Ajaj Salim, accompanied by his wife, Salwa Hanna, and one of his students, Dersim, arrived from Douma, a city in the Syrian capital, Damascus, to North and East Syria. Their visit aims to provide support for the development of arts and cinema in the region. Salim is currently coordinating with the Mesopotamian Movement for Democratic Culture and Art to enhance cultural and artistic initiatives.

 With a career spanning over three decades, Dr. Ajaj Salim has directed 40 theatrical productions and held several prestigious positions, including Director of the Cinema Department at the Arab International University, Dean of the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts (2011), General Director of the Directorate of Theaters and Music, Director of the National Theater, and Artistic Director of the Sharjah National Theater. He has also managed various theater and arts festivals and pursued his studies in the Philosophy of Fine Arts (Directing Department) at the Russian State Academy for Theater, Music, and Cinema. As a filmmaker, professor, and director, Salim has played a crucial role in shaping the artistic and cinematic landscape in Syria.

 Expressing his delight at being in Rojava and participating in the Newroz celebrations, Salim stated: "I witnessed the lighting of the torch of freedom, and I sincerely hope that Rojava and this land will always be in peace and prosperity."

 Salim further elaborated:"I have been following the developments in Rojava with great confidence, respect, and admiration. I can affirm that it is a significant experience for our Kurdish brethren in Syria—an experience that extends beyond the artistic realm to encompass social, economic, and political dimensions. Through my friends, I have closely monitored the cultural progress and the ambition to advance theater, cinema, and music in the region. This land is rich with talented artists, musicians, visual artists, and filmmakers."

 He highlighted that the Jazira Canton is not only fertile in terms of agriculture and natural resources but that its greatest wealth is its people. Despite facing crises, wars, and hardships, the region has stood resilient, continuously igniting the flame of freedom.

 Salim praised the governance model in North and East Syria, emphasizing:

"This is a crucial Syrian model that could be extended to other parts of the country. It is characterized by democratic relations among people, an open political environment, and diverse forms of expression—whether through art, direct political engagement, or the continuous presence of political diversity."

 He further noted: "What stands out most is the region’s commitment to civilization, gender equality, and democracy—a profound and practical trilogy (environment, women's rights, and democracy). These are not just theoretical concepts but lived realities here."

 Salim acknowledged the historical marginalization of the Kurdish people in Syria, including the denial of Kurdish language rights, and underscored the importance of cultural recognition and inclusion.

 Looking ahead, he revealed: "There will be work on an academic level, and we aim to establish artistic troupes in every city across North and East Syria. Additionally, we seek to advance cinematic and dramatic production in the region. The potential and ambition are evident, and the administration has demonstrated its commitment to supporting culture and the arts."

 Salim expressed admiration for the resilience of the region’s cultural institutions, which have flourished even during times of war and hardship. He praised the dedication that led to the establishment of cinematic, musical, and theatrical institutions, emphasizing that there is now a strong desire to expand and share this experience more broadly.

 a.k

ANHA