India Reflects on Rwanda’s Dark Past and Embraces Solidarity at Kwibuka30

NEW DELHI, April 11, 2024 – In a somber assembly at the India International Centre, dignitaries and advocates gathered on the evening of April 10th to mark the 30th anniversary of the Rwandan Genocide. Organized by the High Commission of Rwanda in India, the event known as Kwibuka30—meaning ‘to remember’ in Kinyarwanda—served not only as a remembrance but also as a stark reminder of the horrors of hatred and the importance of international solidarity.

Her Excellency Mrs. Jacqueline Mukangira, the High Commissioner of Rwanda to India, spearheaded the ceremony with a poignant recount of the tragedy that claimed the lives of over a million Tutsi in 1994. “What happened in my country should never happen in any country in the world,” the High Commissioner stated, her words a clarion call for global peace and unity.

The commemoration included a candlelight vigil, a poignant symbol of remembrance and hope. Distinguished guests, including Mr. Sevala Naik Mude, Additional Secretary from the Ministry of External Affairs, UN officials, and foreign diplomats, joined in this act of solidarity.

Ambassador Kevin Kelly of Ireland reminded the audience of the international community’s inaction during the genocide, condemning hate speech as “the seedbed of genocide.” Echoing this sentiment, UN Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp, while delivering the UN Secretary-General’s message, urged everyone to commit to a future devoid of hatred and violence.

The ceremony also witnessed the presence of Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and chair of the Indo Rwanda Film and Cultural Forum, who extended his concerns and called for continued vigilance against such atrocities.

As the flames of the candles flickered in the night, the message of Kwibuka30 resonated strongly—never to forget the lives lost and to fight against the forces of division. It is a reminder that the lessons of the past should inform our present and guide our future towards a world where tolerance and understanding triumph over enmity.

Prestigious Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose National Award for Education Celebrates Excellence at Marwah Studios

Noida: In a grand event at the Marwah Studios, 32 principals from CBSE schools across India were honored with the 2nd Edition of the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose National Award for Education. This esteemed accolade was presented during a National Training Program hosted at the AAFT University, Noida Film City, recognizing their outstanding contribution to education and leadership in their respective institutions.

Sandeep Marwah, a luminary in the field of education and media, took the stage to redefine the concept of education, drawing attention to AAFT’s global impact. “AAFT has not only emerged as a case study in 27 countries but also stands tall among the most important universities of the world,” Marwah asserted. He proudly announced that AAFT has created nine world records, setting a new benchmark for educational excellence worldwide.

The event garnered extensive media coverage, with Radio Noida, Radio Raipur, Radio Mumbai, and MSTV of Marwah Studios broadcasting the achievements celebrated during the ceremony. This recognition serves to highlight the innovative approach and international standards adopted by AAFT, propelling it to the forefront of global education.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah Honored with the Role of Commissioner International by the Hindustan Scouts and Guides

Noida: At the National Review Meet of the Hindustan Scouts and Guides held at Marwah Studios, a significant announcement was made under the leadership of Mr. Anil Pratham IPS, the National Chief Commissioner. Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, has been officially nominated as Commissioner International, acknowledging his contributions and vision for youth development.

The event, which also featured a marching band of scouts, highlighted the continuing efforts of the Hindustan Scouts and Guides to involve more young individuals in the movement. Dr. Marwah, upon his nomination, expressed his deep appreciation and shared his outlook on the importance of scouting in shaping the nation’s youth. “I am very happy and honored to be nominated Commissioner International. The idea is to do something meaningful for school and college children, and I believe that there is no better platform than scouts and guides to nurture these children into better nationals,” Dr. Marwah said.

In attendance were prominent figures from the organization, including Anil Pratham, who addressed the gathering, and Dr. Rajat Sharma, Chief Commissioner, who also shared his insights.

The Hindustan Scouts and Guides have been instrumental in promoting values of self-reliance, patriotism, and community service among the youth. With Dr. Marwah’s new role, the organization is set to further its reach and impact in the international arena, providing new opportunities for the children and youth of India.

Dr. Marwah’s dedication and enthusiasm are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the organization’s international collaborations and educational programs.

Renowned Fashion Designer Rina Dhaka Takes Charge as Dean of AAFT School of Fashion and Design

Noida:  AAFT has proudly announced the appointment of the acclaimed fashion designer Rina Dhaka as the Dean of the AAFT School of Fashion and Design. Known for her exceptional work in the fashion industry, Rina Dhaka brings a wealth of expertise to the prestigious institution, promising an enriched learning experience for the students.

“We are elated to welcome Rina Dhaka to our team. Her experience and vision for fashion education are invaluable, and we are looking forward to the new heights the AAFT School of Fashion and Design will reach under her leadership,” stated Dr. Sandeep Marwah President of AAFT.

With a career spanning decades, Rina Dhaka’s designs stand out for their harmonious blend of traditional and modern elements, underscoring her commitment to sustainability and the preservation of artisanal skills. Her creations have graced international celebrities and have been showcased at iconic locations such as The Louvre and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Apart from her fashion prowess, Rina Dhaka is also celebrated for her humanitarian work in Delhi, her dedication to Buddhist principles, and her advocacy for sustainable development. As a vocal ambassador for PETA India, she has contributed significantly to the discourse on animal rights and ethical treatment. Her presence in the entertainment industry is also noteworthy, with appearances in films like ‘Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar’, cementing her as a multifaceted personality.

Rina Dhaka expressed her enthusiasm about her new role, “I am very pleased to be joining the AAFT family. It’s an opportunity to shape the future of fashion by nurturing the talent and creativity of our students. I am committed to sharing my knowledge and experience to inspire the next generation of fashion designers.” The AAFT School of Fashion and Design is poised for an exciting chapter of innovation and growth with Rina Dhaka at its helm.

Indo-South Korea Forum Champions Cultural and Film Exchange

Noida: In an ongoing effort to fortify the cultural and artistic bonds between India and South Korea, the Indo-South Korea Forum has been actively orchestrating a series of events aimed at fostering bilateral relations. Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) and Chair for the Indo South Korea Film and Cultural Forum, affirmed the commitment to a mutual exchange during a recent gathering at Marwah Studios, the international headquarters of ICMEI.

Dr. Marwah, a vanguard of international cooperation through media and culture, expressed enthusiasm for the burgeoning ties between the nations. “Through a vibrant series of events, we are dedicated to showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian and Korean arts and cinema. It is a bridge that connects not just two cultures but also the hearts and minds of people across both nations,” he stated.

This proactive initiative was further enhanced by the presence of Jong Hyup Lee, Counsellor at the Embassy of South Korea, and Sanjeev K. Ahuja of Asian Community News. The forum has been pivotal in initiating dialogues and planning substantial interactions between Indian and Korean representatives.

The engaging discussions have led to a number of innovative ideas that are set to be implemented. These dialogues have not only deepened understanding but also paved the way for new collaborations in the fields of film, art, and culture.

The Indo-South Korea Forum continues to be a leading force in building a strong foundation for cultural diplomacy and international friendship. With art and culture at the helm, the forum looks forward to announcing new events and partnerships that will further strengthen the India-South Korea relationship.

Marwah Studios Hosts Pioneering Workshop for CBSE School Principals in Partnership with Ministry of Education

Noida In a significant move to enhance educational leadership, Marwah Studios, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has initiated a two-day workshop aimed at the principals of CBSE schools. This ground-breaking workshop is designed to provide insights into the evolving landscape of education, with a special focus on leadership and innovation.

The workshop was inaugurated by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, an esteemed figure in the educational and creative domains. During the opening ceremony, Dr. Marwah enlightened the attendees on the meticulous planning, designing, and formation of Noida Film City, highlighting his instrumental role as the founder of both Marwah Studios and the Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT).

Furthermore, the event serves as a platform to discuss the significance of skill development in the creative sector, encompassing film, television, and media. AAFT University takes center stage in this initiative, offering a comprehensive outlook on its specialized skill development courses designed to meet the dynamic needs of the creative industries.

The workshop features a series of interactive sessions led by a distinguished panel of experts, aimed at empowering principals with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of educational governance and curriculum enhancement.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah said “It is our collective responsibility to prepare our future generations for the challenges of tomorrow. Through this workshop, we strive to fortify the leadership at CBSE schools, ensuring that our educators are well-equipped with the expertise to foster an environment of innovation and growth.”

MOU Signed Between Moon OTT Channel and AAFT to Promote Cinema and Short Films

Noida: Marwah Studios is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Moon OTT Channel through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance the landscape of cinema and short films in India. This collaboration is set to ignite a new era of content creation and distribution, harnessing the talent and rich cultural narratives that India has to offer.

Sankshay Babbar, representative of Moon OTT Channel, articulated the vision behind the initiative: “India, the cradle of epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana, today faces a dearth of compelling content and opportunities for its myriad of gifted individuals. It’s time for a paradigm shift from being followers to becoming trailblazers in the global narrative. Moon is here to catalyze that change.”

Aligning with this mission, Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and renowned for producing the largest number of short films globally, expressed his enthusiasm: “We are ready and eager to supply a diverse range of content to Moon OTT Channel. Our extensive repertoire spans every genre imaginable and will enrich the channel’s offerings, provide unprecedented exposure for young filmmakers, and further elevate the reputation of Marwah Films and Video Productions.”

This partnership is set to break new ground by leveraging the strengths of both entities. Marwah Studios’ exceptional content library will be made accessible to a wider audience through Moon OTT’s innovative platform, promising a renaissance of Indian cinema and storytelling that honors its heritage while embracing the future.

Shakespeare Remembered at AAFT, Noida Film City

Noida:  The Shakespeare Society of Marwah Studios solemnly commemorated the death anniversary of William Shakespeare, the bard whose timeless works continue to be the cornerstone of dramatic arts and education. The event was marked by the poignant words of President Dr. Sandeep Marwah, who stated, “There is no greater teacher in acting than Shakespeare himself. Each of his plays is a repository of profound emotions, wise words, and exemplary performances. The expressions within his works are not just for the stage—they teach us about life itself.”

In homage to Shakespeare’s enduring legacy, the Department of Acting at the Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT) unveiled a specially designed poster during a ceremony filled with respect and reverence for the literary master. The poster, which celebrates Shakespeare’s contribution to the dramatic arts, will be displayed prominently within the department as a source of inspiration for both current and future generations of actors.

The ceremony also included readings from select Shakespearean plays, enlightening discussions about his influence on modern theatre, and workshops aimed at delving deeper into the emotional depth of Shakespeare’s characters. Dr. Marwah emphasized the importance of Shakespeare’s works in acting curricula and the undeniable impact they have in shaping performers who can convey the most intricate human emotions with authenticity and power.

The Shakespeare Society of Marwah Studios continues to dedicate itself to the exploration and celebration of Shakespeare’s works, ensuring that the legacy of the bard lives on through education and performance. Aspiring actors and scholars alike are encouraged to draw from the well of Shakespeare’s wisdom to better understand the art of storytelling and the human condition.