Month: November 2024

Noida: The highly anticipated 17th edition of the Global Film Festival (GFF), recognized as one of North India’s largest film festivals, proudly released its second official poster during the 2nd Irish Film Festival of India at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City. This festival, which is now regarded as the second biggest film festival in India after IFFI in Goa, promises to be an extraordinary celebration of global cinema, culture, and creativity.

Held annually at Marwah Studios, the Global Film Festival has established itself as the largest film festival organized by any educational institution globally. “We are excited to host 52 different events over the course of three days, with almost a thousand individuals involved in the preparations. The scale of this festival has grown immensely, and we are committed to delivering a spectacular cinematic experience,” shared Dr. Sandeep Marwah, founder and President of the festival.

The 17th GFF is set to offer an immersive experience for cinema lovers and industry professionals alike, with a wide range of activities that go beyond film screenings. Attendees can look forward to workshops, seminars, interactive programs, panel discussions, exhibitions, musical evenings, and fashion shows. The festival will also host special events, including poster launches, book releases, award ceremonies, and the unveiling of new film projects.

Dr. Marwah emphasized the significance of the festival in providing a platform for cultural exchange and fostering a vibrant cinematic community. “The Global Film Festival is not just about films; it is an all-encompassing cultural extravaganza. With nearly a thousand media houses covering the event, we aim to create a memorable journey through the world of cinema over these three days.”

With each edition, the Global Film Festival has continued to evolve, drawing participants, filmmakers, and enthusiasts from across the globe. It has become a landmark event in the international film calendar, celebrated for its dynamic programming and inclusive atmosphere. The unveiling of the poster marks the countdown to this year’s event, sparking excitement among attendees and industry insiders alike.

The 17th Global Film Festival is poised to showcase the best of world cinema while encouraging dialogue, learning, and collaboration among artists and audiences. This year’s edition promises to set new standards in scale and grandeur, cementing its reputation as a premier film festival in India.

Noida: As part of the Irish Film Festival of India, a special workshop was conducted for students of cinema and acting at the Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT) by renowned Irish actor and filmmaker, Siraj Zaidi. The festival, organized by the Indo-Ireland Film and Cultural Forum in association with the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry, took place at Marwah Studios in Noida Film City, providing a platform for cultural exchange and artistic growth.

Siraj Zaidi, who has had an illustrious career spanning over 40 years, was specially invited to India to conduct this workshop. As a prominent figure in the Irish and Indian film industries, Zaidi brought a wealth of experience, having fostered cultural relations between India and Ireland through numerous artistic collaborations. Notably, he also serves as the Director of the Indian Film Festival of Ireland, which recently celebrated its 15th successful edition in Dublin.

In the workshop, Zaidi shared insights into his journey as an actor and filmmaker, emphasizing the deep cultural connection between India and Ireland. He spoke about the evolution of cinema in both countries, highlighting the impact of storytelling as a bridge between diverse cultures. His engaging and informative session covered various aspects of international cinema, offering students a unique perspective on acting techniques, filmmaking nuances, and the importance of cultural representation in cinema.

The students of AAFT were captivated by Zaidi’s passion and expertise, and they found his practical advice invaluable for their own careers in the film industry. Zaidi’s discussion on Indo-Ireland relations, especially through the lens of art and culture, inspired attendees to explore cross-cultural storytelling in their own creative pursuits.

“It is a privilege to learn from an artist of Siraj Zaidi’s caliber, especially in such a personal and interactive setting,” expressed one of the students. “This workshop has broadened our understanding of international cinema and the unique relationship between India and Ireland. We are grateful for the opportunity.”

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, expressed his appreciation for Zaidi’s contribution to the festival, stating, “Siraj Zaidi’s workshop has added immense value to this festival, providing young filmmakers with invaluable insights into the global film industry. The Indo-Ireland Film and Cultural Forum remains dedicated to fostering cross-cultural understanding through initiatives like these, and we are honored to host Siraj Zaidi at Marwah Studios.”

The Irish Film Festival of India, organized by the Indo-Ireland Film and Cultural Forum, continues to serve as a cultural bridge between the two nations, offering a platform for artistic exchange and educational opportunities for young talent.

Noida: The second edition of the Irish Film Festival of India concluded on a high note at Marwah Studios in Noida Film City, celebrating the vibrant culture and cinematic excellence of Ireland over two memorable days. Organized by the Indo-Ireland Film and Cultural Forum in collaboration with the Embassy of Ireland in India and the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry, the festival was a testament to the enduring friendship and growing cultural ties between India and Ireland.

The festival opened with a grand inauguration, showcasing three iconic Irish films and a delightful presentation of Irish cuisine, courtesy of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism. The unique blend of cinema and traditional Irish flavors brought the essence of Ireland to India, with audiences immersed in both visual and culinary experiences.

A highlight of the festival was the workshop led by Siraz Zaidi, an acclaimed actor and filmmaker from Ireland, who shared his expertise with budding filmmakers in an interactive session. Zaidi’s workshop provided invaluable insights into the art and craft of filmmaking, offering participants a glimpse into the Irish film industry and inspiring many to explore cross-cultural storytelling.

The two-day celebration concluded with a powerful musical performance by the renowned artist Ali Quli Warsi, who graced Marwah Studios with his presence for this prestigious event. Known for his dynamic work in film, television, and stage, Warsi captivated the audience with an electrifying performance that left a lasting impact on all present. His energetic and soulful presentation was a fitting tribute to the festival’s aim of strengthening cultural bonds through art.

“It was an honor to host the Irish Film Festival of India, which has once again proven to be a landmark event. The Indo-Ireland Film and Cultural Forum is committed to promoting cross-cultural exchanges, and this festival has been a wonderful opportunity to showcase the creative synergy between our two nations,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios. “Through cinema, music, and culinary experiences, we aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage among the Indian audience.”

Raymond Mullen, the Deputy Ambassador of Ireland to India, expressed his appreciation for the efforts of Marwah Studios and the Indo-Ireland Film and Cultural Forum in organizing such a successful event. He emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy and the role of such festivals in bringing people together across borders.

The festival featured three acclaimed films, each representing different facets of Irish life and storytelling: MY FOOT by Jim Sheridan, Peter O’Toole Along The Sky Road to Acaba by Jim Sheridan, and Baltimore by Joe Lawlor and Christine Molloy. These films were well-received, sparking discussions on Indo-Ireland relations among filmmakers, students, and the general audience.

In addition to the films, the festival’s focus on Irish cuisine, provided by AAFT’s hospitality students, added a unique flavor to the experience, allowing attendees to savor the tastes of Ireland in an authentic way. The culinary aspect was widely appreciated for its thoughtful presentation and delicious offerings, which further enhanced the cultural immersion.

The Irish Film Festival of India has once again left a profound impression on all attendees, strengthening the bridge of friendship between India and Ireland. As the festival closed, the Indo-Ireland Film and Cultural Forum affirmed its dedication to continuing such initiatives, fostering an environment of mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration through the universal language of art.

Noida: The second edition of the Irish Film Festival of India at Marwah Studios in Noida Film City added a special touch this year with a unique showcase of traditional Irish cuisine, presented by the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism. The festival, a celebration of Irish cinema and culture, was further enriched by the introduction of authentic Irish flavors, delighting attendees and honoring the essence of Ireland.

The distinguished guests included Raymond Mullen, Deputy Ambassador of Ireland to India, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, Mike Berry from Universal Studios, celebrated actor and filmmaker Nileish Malhotra from Mumbai, Dr. Neeraj K Sharma, Consul General of Palau, and Siraz Zaidi, an actor and filmmaker from Dublin. These esteemed individuals sampled the Irish dishes, which were specially prepared for the occasion, bringing an authentic taste of Ireland to the Indian audience.

Festival attendees were pleasantly surprised by the presence of Irish cuisine at the event. The culinary offerings were a delightful addition to the cinematic experience, as the audience relished the flavors of Ireland, complementing the cultural immersion brought by the film screenings. The food received high praise not only for its taste but also for the thoughtful presentation, which captured the spirit of Irish hospitality and culinary tradition.

“Events like this allow us to explore and appreciate different cultures in their entirety. We are thrilled to offer Irish cinema enthusiasts not only exceptional films but also a culinary experience that reflects Ireland’s rich cultural heritage,” remarked Dr. Marwah.

The Irish Film Festival of India, organized by the Indo-Ireland Film and Cultural Forum in association with the Embassy of Ireland in India and the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry, continues to serve as a bridge of cultural exchange, providing Indian audiences with an immersive experience of Irish culture through cinema, cuisine, and more.

New Delhi, India – In a grand celebration held at the residence of H.E. Ali Achoui, the Ambassador of Algeria to India, notable dignitaries and guests gathered to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Algerian Glorious Revolution of November 1, 1954. The event paid tribute to Algeria’s journey toward independence and the valor of its people.

Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Chair of the Indo-Algerian Film and Cultural Forum, was among the honored guests. Representing the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) and the entire art and cultural fraternity, Marwah extended heartfelt congratulations to Ambassador Achoui and the people of Algeria on this historic occasion.

In his remarks, Marwah highlighted the importance of cultural ties between India and Algeria, emphasizing that such events foster deeper understanding and solidarity. He expressed his admiration for Algeria’s rich cultural heritage and pledged continued collaboration through the Indo-Algerian Film and Cultural Forum.

The event underscored the significance of the Algerian Revolution, honoring the sacrifices made for freedom and independence. Marwah’s presence underscored the strong cultural and artistic links between India and Algeria, fostering goodwill and shared celebration.

New Delhi: The India International Centre witnessed a prestigious event today where Lord Rami Ranger was felicitated for his significant contributions towards fostering India’s image and relations in the United Kingdom. Known for his deep commitment to promoting India, Lord Ranger has been a key advocate in the British Parliament, actively spreading awareness about the nation’s growth and progress.

The felicitation took place during a panel discussion focused on India’s neighborhood and its relations with the United States, held at the India International Centre. The event gathered several notable dignitaries who acknowledged Lord Ranger’s efforts and dedication.

Lord Rami Ranger CBE, FRSA, a successful businessman, has been honored by Her Majesty the Queen on eight occasions—six times for his business achievements and twice for his community services. He was appointed a Member of the British Empire (MBE) in 2005 and later became a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 2016.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, expressed his admiration for Lord Ranger’s work: “I am happy to be here at this prestigious event where Lord Rami Ranger is being honored for his efforts in developing and promoting relations between India and the United Kingdom. His contributions have been instrumental in strengthening the ties between the two countries.” Dr. Marwah also highlighted Lord Ranger’s role as the patron of the Indo UK Film and Cultural Forum, which was established by the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry.

The event marked an important milestone in celebrating individuals who contribute to the cultural and diplomatic bridge between India and the UK, further promoting goodwill and collaboration at various levels.

Noida, India — In a bid to awaken the entrepreneurial spirit among young Indians and contribute to the nation’s economic growth, the Asian School of Business (ASB) and Bharat Startup & Innovation Society (BSIS), India’s first national association of the startup ecosystem, hosted a seminar and workshop on startups at the ASB campus in Noida.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, an industry visionary, opened the session by highlighting India’s journey toward becoming the world’s third-largest economy. He emphasized the importance of encouraging entrepreneurship to boost GDP and generate employment opportunities in India.

The seminar featured distinguished speakers from various sectors. Dr. Jitendra Kumar, Managing Director of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), shared inspiring stories of how small businesses can grow into large enterprises within a short span. He emphasized that innovative startups play a crucial role in transforming the economic landscape.

Dr. Vinayak Nath, National President of BSIS and Co-Chair of Startup 20, spoke about successful Indian companies that have evolved into world-class setups, providing employment to hundreds and setting new standards in the global business arena.

Colonel Saurabh Sanyal, Chief Advisor at BSIS, Mr. Ojaswi Babbar, CEO of Amity Innovation Incubator, and Dr. Lalitya Veer Srivastava, Director at AEG, shared their insights into building a robust entrepreneurship ecosystem. Each speaker contributed valuable perspectives, equipping the audience with knowledge and inspiration to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.

This seminar is a testament to BSIS and ASB’s commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for startups and inspiring India’s youth to take bold steps in the world of entrepreneurship.

Noida, India – The Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT), in collaboration with the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) and the International Children’s Film Forum, celebrated the International Day of the Girl Child at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida. The event highlighted the importance of empowering girls and ensuring equal opportunities for them in all spheres of life.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of supporting girls in achieving their full potential. “Empowering girls is crucial to building a just and prosperous society,” said Dr. Marwah. “At AAFT, we are committed to creating a platform that celebrates and supports young girls, encouraging them to dream big and break barriers.”

The event included film screenings, workshops, and interactive discussions, all designed to inspire and empower young girls. The International Day of the Girl Child serves as a global call to action to advocate for girls’ rights and tackle issues like gender-based discrimination and inequality.

Noida, India – The AAFT School of Health and Wellness, in association with the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), commemorated World Mental Health Day on October 9th with a series of discussions, workshops, and activities focused on mental well-being. The event aimed to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and to foster a supportive environment for open conversations on this vital topic.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT School of Health and Wellness, emphasized the need for mental health awareness in today’s fast-paced world. “Mental health is as crucial as physical health,” Dr. Marwah remarked. “We need to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues and encourage open dialogue. At AAFT, we are committed to promoting mental well-being and supporting initiatives that make mental health care accessible and understood.”

World Mental Health Day, observed internationally, serves as a reminder to prioritize mental health, understand its challenges, and support those affected. The AAFT event included expert talks, counseling sessions, and group discussions, all aimed at promoting mental resilience and wellness within the community.

New Delhi, India – The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), along with the entire art and culture fraternity of India, extends heartfelt congratulations to H.E. Dr. Eliska Ziggova, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to India, and the people of the Czech Republic on the occasion of their Independence Day, celebrated on October 28th.

India and the Czech Republic share a strong and growing friendship. To foster this bond further, ICMEI proudly established the Indo-Czech Republic Film and Cultural Forum, which has served as a platform for cultural and artistic exchanges between the two nations. Under this initiative, numerous events have been successfully organized, with the Czech Republic playing a key role in prestigious ICMEI-hosted festivals, including the Global Film Festival, Global Festival of Journalism, Global Fashion Week, and Global Literary Festival.

The recent visit of Dr. Sandeep Marwah to the Czech Republic has further strengthened the Indo-Czech Republic Film and Cultural Forum. Dr. Marwah’s engagement has added momentum to the forum’s activities, underscoring the commitment of both nations to enhance cultural understanding through art, media, and academic exchanges.

New Delhi, India – The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), alongside the art and culture fraternity of India, extends its heartfelt congratulations to H.E. Percy P. Chanda, High Commissioner of Zambia to India, and the people of Zambia on the occasion of Zambia’s Independence Day, celebrated on October 24th.

In a gesture of friendship and commitment to strengthening cultural and diplomatic relations, ICMEI has proposed the establishment of the Indo-Zambia Film and Cultural Forum. This initiative aims to promote cooperation and mutual appreciation in art, film, and culture between India and Zambia.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, a distinguished figure in international media and cultural relations, continues to support ICMEI’s vision of connecting nations through the arts. Known for his extensive work with numerous African nations, Dr. Marwah serves as a patron of several prominent organizations, including the UK-based Africa Asia Scholars Global Network (AASGON), the Dubai-based I AM Africa organization, and the Association of African Students in India (AASI). His dedication to strengthening India’s ties with Africa reflects his ongoing commitment to fostering unity and cultural understanding.