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AAFT Scouts and Guides Render Impressive Guard of Honour at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025. Noida, India: In a moment of pride, discipline, and heartfelt respect, AAFT students from the Scouts and Guides unit, affiliated with the Hindustan Scouts and Guides Association, rendered a magnificent Guard of Honour to all the distinguished VIPs attending the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 at the prestigious Marwah Studios, Film City Noida. The ceremonial presentation added grace, dignity, and a strong sense of tradition to the grand international festival.

The flawless coordination, immaculate uniforms, and confident bearing of the Scouts and Guides earned widespread admiration from international dignitaries, filmmakers, diplomats, and guests present at the festival. The gesture was warmly appreciated by everyone, who praised the students for their discipline, dedication, and exemplary conduct, making it one of the most memorable and emotionally uplifting moments of the festival.

Expressing his pride, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Festival President and Commissioner, International Scouts and Guides, stated that such initiatives reflect the values of leadership, service, patriotism, and character-building among the youth. He emphasized that AAFT strongly believes in holistic education, where cultural, creative, and social responsibility go hand in hand.

The Guard of Honour by the AAFT Scouts and Guides stood as a powerful symbol of respect, unity, and youthful commitment, perfectly complementing the global spirit and grandeur of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025.

Thought-Provoking Seminar on “Is the Film Industry Receptive to Outside Talent?” Held at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025. Noida, India: A highly engaging and intellectually stimulating seminar on the topic “Is the Film Industry Receptive to Outside Talent?” was successfully inaugurated at the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 at the iconic Marwah Film City, Noida. The session brought together an impressive and diverse panel of eminent personalities from cinema, media, fashion, diplomacy, and creative arts, making it one of the most vibrant discussions of the festival.

The seminar featured celebrated film, theatre and television actor Darshan Jariwala and popular actor Faisal Malik, along with distinguished dignitaries including Her Excellency Mahishini Colonne, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka; Mr. Yahya Al Dughaishi, Counsellor, Embassy of Oman; Kumar Rakesh, Senior Journalist; K. K. Kaushik, Astrologer; Radha Bhutt, Actress; Deepinder Singh, Fashion Designer; Srishty Kaur, Miss Universe Teen; Mansi Sharma, renowned Model; Nidhi Chaudhary, Psychic Healer and Content Creator; Mr. Kim Myong Chol, First Secretary, DPR Korea; and Mr. Jang Jong Swan, Counsellor, DPR Korea.

Each speaker candidly shared personal journeys, professional experiences, and insightful perspectives on inclusivity, opportunities, and challenges within the film and creative industries. The discussion reflected the evolving mindset of the industry and its increasing openness to fresh, diverse, and deserving talent from all backgrounds.

Initiating the seminar, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Festival President, emphasized that the film industry today welcomes talent with open arms. “The creative world has never believed in caste, creed, religion, rich or poor, state or region. What truly matters is passion, commitment, and talent,” he stated, receiving resounding appreciation from the audience.

The seminar witnessed a powerful exchange of ideas, followed by an enthusiastic question-and-answer session, where young aspirants and delegates actively interacted with the panelists. The session concluded with Dr. Sandeep Marwah presenting the Festival Memento to all the distinguished speakers, marking the event as a memorable highlight of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025—a true celebration of openness, diversity, and creative excellence.

Presentation of Israeli Cuisine Adds Global Flavour to 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025. Noida, India: The vibrant aromas and rich culinary heritage of Israel took center stage at the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 with the grand Presentation of Cuisine from Israel, inaugurated by Mr. Guy Nir, representative of the Embassy of Israel, at the iconic Marwah Film City, Noida. The exquisite culinary showcase was meticulously prepared and presented by the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism, earning wide appreciation from international delegates and festival guests.

Organised under the banner of the Indo–Israel Film and Cultural Forum, the event celebrated the deep-rooted cultural friendship between India and Israel through the universal language of food. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of GFFN and Chancellor of AAFT, emphasized that gastronomy is a powerful medium of cultural exchange, strengthening people-to-people connections alongside cinema, art, and education. He highlighted the growing collaboration between India and Israel across creative and cultural domains.

Mr. Guy Nir expressed his gratitude to AAFT and the festival organisers for showcasing Israel’s diverse culinary traditions on such a prestigious international platform. He noted that initiatives like these foster mutual understanding and reinforce the strong bonds between the two nations. The event stood out as a memorable celebration of global harmony, cultural diplomacy, and international friendship—perfectly aligning with the spirit of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025.

Cuisine of DPR Korea Showcased at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025. Noida, India: The 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 continued its vibrant celebration of global cultures with a distinctive Presentation of Cuisine from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) at the prestigious Marwah Film City, Noida. The culinary showcase was formally inaugurated by Mr. Jang Jong Swan, Counsellor, along with Mr. Kim Myong Chol from the Embassy of DPR Korea, marking a memorable moment of cultural exchange and international goodwill.

The authentic Korean delicacies were thoughtfully prepared and presented by the talented students of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism, who impressed the distinguished guests with their professionalism, precision, and deep respect for traditional culinary practices of DPR Korea. The presentation offered an engaging insight into the country’s rich food heritage, drawing admiration from diplomats, filmmakers, and international delegates.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Jang Jong Swan appreciated the Global Film Festival Noida and AAFT for creating a unique platform where culture, cuisine, and creativity converge. He emphasised that such initiatives play a vital role in strengthening mutual understanding and fostering cultural bonds between nations, particularly through people-to-people interactions.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida, emphasized the growing significance of the Indo–DPR Korea Film and Cultural Forum. He stated that cinema, education, and culinary arts together serve as powerful instruments of cultural diplomacy, bringing nations closer and nurturing long-term friendships based on respect and shared artistic values.

The presentation of DPR Korean cuisine stood out as a flavorful highlight of the festival, reinforcing the Global Film Festival Noida’s commitment to promoting global harmony, cultural diversity, and meaningful international collaboration.

Omani Cuisine Enthralls Guests at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025. Noida, India: The rich and aromatic flavors of Oman were showcased with great elegance during the Presentation of Cuisine from Oman at the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025, held at the iconic Marwah Film City, Noida. The culinary presentation was formally inaugurated by Mr. Yahya Al Dughaishi, Counsellor, Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman, adding a distinguished international touch to the festival’s multicultural celebrations.

The authentic Omani delicacies were meticulously prepared and presented by the talented students of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism, reflecting exceptional skill, cultural sensitivity, and professional excellence. The presentation offered guests a delightful gastronomic journey into Oman’s rich culinary heritage, earning widespread appreciation from diplomats, filmmakers, and international delegates.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Yahya Al Dughaishi applauded AAFT and the Global Film Festival Noida for promoting cultural understanding through cuisine and education. He emphasized that food is a powerful medium of cultural diplomacy and expressed his admiration for the students’ dedication in authentically representing Omani traditions and flavors.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida, highlighted the importance of integrating culinary arts with global cultural platforms. He stated that such initiatives strengthen people-to-people ties and celebrate the diversity that defines the spirit of the festival, while also providing students with valuable international exposure.

The Omani cuisine presentation emerged as a vibrant highlight of the festival, reinforcing the Global Film Festival Noida’s mission of fostering global unity, cultural exchange, and creative collaboration through film, art, and culinary heritage. Omani Cuisine Enthralls Guests at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025.

Russian Cinema Takes Center Stage at 18th Global Film Festival Noida. Noida, India: The 18th Global Film Festival Noida witnessed a powerful celebration of Russian cinema with the special screening of two acclaimed Russian films — In The Moscow Slums and Muzhu Privet, directed by renowned filmmaker Anton Maslov. The screening was ceremoniously inaugurated by Ms. Olga Kroshkina from the Russian Culture House at the iconic Marwah Film City, Noida, drawing enthusiastic audiences and international attention.

In recognition of their artistic excellence and compelling storytelling, Russian film was conferred with the Award of Distinction, presented by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Festival. The award was graciously received by Ms. Olga Kroshkina on behalf of the filmmaker Anton Maslov.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah highlighted the significant role of the Indo-Russia Film and Cultural Forum, emphasizing its ongoing efforts to strengthen cultural, artistic, and cinematic collaboration between India and Russia through film exchanges, joint initiatives, and people-to-people connections.

Ms. Olga Kroshkina, in her address, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Global Film Festival Noida and AAFT for providing a prestigious international platform to Russian cinema. She reaffirmed the Russian Culture House’s commitment to deepening Indo-Russian cultural ties and praised the festival for its vision of global unity through the medium of film.

The screening stood as a testament to the enduring friendship between India and Russia and reinforced the Global Film Festival Noida’s status as a vibrant global stage for cinematic dialogue, cultural harmony, and creative excellence.

Exhibition of Paintings Inaugurated at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 — A Vibrant Celebration of Art and Global Harmony. Noida, India: The Exhibition of Paintings was magnificently inaugurated at the 18th Global Film Festival Noida (GFFN) 2025 at the prestigious Marwah Film City, Noida, adding rich colours and artistic depth to the festival’s grand celebrations. Curated and designed by the talented students of the AAFT School of Fine Arts, the exhibition stood as a powerful reflection of creativity, imagination, and contemporary artistic expression.

The inauguration was honoured by an eminent gathering of international dignitaries, including H.E. Juris Bone, Ambassador of Latvia; H.E. Alberto Antonio, Ambassador of Uruguay; and H.E. Karlito Nunes, Ambassador of Timor-Leste. The occasion was further dignified by the presence of Cdr. K. L. Ganju, Hon. Consul General, Union of Comoros; Ms. Inga Skruzmane, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Latvia; Mr. Faisal Mahmud, Press Minister, High Commission of Bangladesh; Mr. Metsing Ediel Lemphane, Counsellor, High Commission of Lesotho; Ms. Nohely Salinas Gonzalez, 3rd Secretary, Embassy of Panama; Ms. Ediza Marlene Jimenez Moreno, Embassy of Panama; and Mr. Ibrahim Besthawi, Counsellor, Embassy of the State of Palestine.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Founder of Noida Film City, emphasized the inseparable bond between art and culture. He stated that paintings and the School of Fine Arts have always been an integral part of every major event at Marwah Studios, reflecting the institution’s deep belief in nurturing artistic talent and celebrating creativity across disciplines. “We believe art speaks a universal language. Through these paintings, young artists are expressing emotions, social realities, and global perspectives that connect humanity beyond borders,” he said.

The exhibition received widespread appreciation from diplomats, artists, filmmakers, and visitors alike, who admired the originality, thematic depth, and artistic maturity displayed by the students. The Painting Exhibition emerged as a compelling highlight of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to promoting fine arts, encouraging young talent, and strengthening cultural dialogue through the powerful medium of visual art.

Exhibition of Still Photography Inaugurated at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025. Noida, India: The Exhibition of Still Photography was ceremoniously inaugurated at the 18th Global Film Festival Noida (GFFN) 2025 at the iconic Marwah Film City, Noida, adding a powerful visual dimension to the festival’s vibrant celebrations. The exhibition, conceptualized and designed by the talented students of the AAFT School of Photography, stood as a testimony to creative excellence, youthful vision, and the evolving language of visual storytelling.

The inauguration was graced by an eminent gathering of international dignitaries, including H.E. Juris Bone, Ambassador of Latvia; H.E. Alberto Antonio, Ambassador of Uruguay; and H.E. Karlito Nunes, Ambassador of Timor-Leste. Also present were Cdr. K. L. Ganju, Hon. Consul General, Union of Comoros; Ms. Inga Skruzmane, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Latvia; Mr. Faisal Mahmud, Press Minister, High Commission of Bangladesh; Mr. Metsing Ediel Lemphane, Counsellor, High Commission of Lesotho; Ms. Nohely Salinas Gonzalez, 3rd Secretary, Embassy of Panama; Ms. Ediza Marlene Jimenez Moreno, Embassy of Panama; and Mr. Ibrahim Besthawi, Counsellor, Embassy of the State of Palestine.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, Marwah Studios, and President of AAFT, emphasized the timeless power of photography. He stated that photographs are a universal language capable of capturing emotions, documenting history, and bridging cultures without words. He lauded the students of AAFT for presenting compelling visual narratives that reflect social realities, artistic sensitivity, and global perspectives.

The exhibition attracted wide appreciation from diplomats, filmmakers, artists, and visitors, who praised the depth, composition, and storytelling evident in the showcased works. The Still Photography Exhibition emerged as a significant highlight of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to nurturing young talent and celebrating the arts as a vital force of cultural expression and international understanding.

18th Global Film Festival Noida Honours International Dignitaries with Festival Mementos at Grand Opening Ceremony. Noida, India: The 18th Global Film Festival Noida (GFFN) opened on a note of international camaraderie and cultural celebration as eminent foreign dignitaries were honoured with Festival Mementos during the grand inaugural function at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City. The gesture symbolized deep appreciation for their continued support in strengthening cultural relations and promoting global harmony through cinema.

The distinguished guests felicitated included Cdr. K. L. Ganju, Hon. Consul General, Union of Comoros; Ms. Inga Skruzmane, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Latvia; Mr. Faisal Mahmud, Press Minister, High Commission of Bangladesh; Mr. Metsing Ediel Lemphane, Counsellor, High Commission of Lesotho; Ms. Nohely Salinas Gonzalez, 3rd Secretary, Embassy of Panama; Ms. Ediza Marlene Jimenez Moreno, Embassy of Panama; and Mr. Ibrahim Besthawi, Counsellor, Embassy of the State of Palestine.

The mementos were presented by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, Marwah Studios, and President of AAFT, an eleven-times World Record holder and a globally respected champion of media, art, and cinema. The honouring ceremony formed a vibrant highlight of the opening celebrations, reflecting the festival’s truly international spirit.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah stated that the presence of diplomats from diverse nations at the Global Film Festival Noida reinforces the power of cinema as a universal language that unites cultures beyond borders. “GFFN is not merely a film festival; it is a global platform for cultural diplomacy, friendship, and creative exchange. Honouring our international friends is a recognition of their role in building bridges of understanding through art and cinema,” he said.

The felicitation ceremony added colour, dignity, and global resonance to the inauguration of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida, once again establishing it as one of the most dynamic and internationally engaged film festivals in the world.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah Honours Eminent Film Industry Leaders at the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025. Noida, India: Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida (GFFN) 2025, honoured and presented the prestigious Festival Memento of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida to distinguished personalities from the Indian film and media fraternity, acknowledging their remarkable contributions to cinema and the creative industries.

The honoured dignitaries included Shri T. P. Agarwal, Patron of the Film Federation of India (FFI), Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) and ICMEI; Shri Abhay Sinha, President of IMPPA and President-Elect of FFI for 2026; Shri Firdausal Hassan, current President of FFI; Shri Nishant Ujjwal, noted Film Producer and Distributor; Shri G. D. Mehta of the Motion Picture Association; and celebrity Chef Ajay Sood, whose creative excellence has also made a strong impact in cinematic and cultural events.

While addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah stated, “The Global Film Festival Noida has crossed all boundaries and milestones. It has now been officially declared the biggest academic film festival in the world, and it already stands proudly as the largest film festival of North India. This achievement reflects the collective vision, commitment, and global support of the film fraternity.”

The ceremony was met with resounding applause and marked a significant highlight of GFFN 2025, reaffirming the festival’s growing international stature and its pivotal role in promoting cinema, education, and cultural exchange on a global platform.

Hindi Cinema Samman National Awards Honouring Global Ambassadors at Global Film Festival Noida. Noida, India: In a powerful celebration of cultural diplomacy and cinematic collaboration, the 9th Hindi Cinema Samman National Awards were conferred upon three distinguished international diplomats for their exceptional contribution to the promotion of Hindi cinema and Indian culture in their respective countries. The prestigious honour was presented to H.E. Juris Bone, Ambassador of Latvia; H.E. Alberto Antonio, Ambassador of Uruguay; and H.E. Karlito Nunes, Ambassador of Timor-Leste, during a grand ceremony held as part of the Global Film Festival Noida.

The awards were presented by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, Marwah Studios, and AAFT University, and an eleven-times World Record holder, widely recognized as one of the strongest global ambassadors of Indian cinema himself. The honours acknowledged the ambassadors’ unwavering support in promoting Hindi cinema within their nations and for their visionary role in establishing and actively promoting the Indo-Latvia Film and Cultural Forum, Indo-Uruguay Film and Cultural Forum, and Indo-Timor-Leste Film and Cultural Forum, respectively—platforms that have significantly strengthened bilateral cultural and cinematic ties.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah emphasized that Hindi cinema has emerged as a powerful instrument of soft power and international engagement. “When diplomats champion cinema and culture, they build bridges beyond politics—bridges of understanding, creativity, and shared humanity. These awards recognize true friends of Indian cinema who have taken its spirit to the world,” he stated.

The ceremony witnessed enthusiastic appreciation from dignitaries, filmmakers, and cultural leaders present at the festival. Offering the vote of thanks, Mr. Ashok Tyagi, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), applauded the awardees for their remarkable contribution to cultural exchange and lauded Dr. Sandeep Marwah for continuously creating global platforms that unite nations through art, media, and cinema.

The presentation of the 9th Hindi Cinema Samman National Awards stood out as a defining moment of the Global Film Festival Noida, underlining the festival’s commitment to promoting Hindi cinema globally and reinforcing India’s cultural leadership on the international stage.

9th Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman Samaroh 2025 Held with Grandeur at Global Film Festival Noida. Noida, India: The 9th Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman Samaroh 2025 was celebrated with great pride and distinction during the Global Film Festival Noida, reaffirming its status as the only national-level exclusive award dedicated to the promotion of Hindi Cinema. The prestigious ceremony paid tribute to outstanding individuals whose contributions have significantly enriched Indian cinema and strengthened its cultural influence.

The coveted National Award for the Promotion of Hindi Cinema was presented to eminent personalities including Smt. Maneka Sanjay Gandhi, renowned filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, Sunita Govinda Ahuja (wife of popular cine star Govinda), Sakshi Mehra, President of the Motion Pictures Association, popular actor Mukesh Tyagi, and acclaimed film director Tushar Amrish Goel. Their achievements and dedication to Hindi cinema were applauded by an august audience comprising film fraternity members, diplomats, academicians, and media professionals.

The awards were conferred by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of the Global Film Festival Noida, President of Marwah Studios, an eleven-times World Record holder, and one of the most influential promoters of Hindi cinema globally. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Marwah emphasized the vital role of Hindi cinema in preserving India’s cultural identity and promoting the nation’s creative excellence worldwide. He also highlighted that the Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman Samaroh was instituted to recognize consistent, meaningful, and impactful contributions to the growth and global reach of Hindi films.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, who also serves as Advisor to several Ministries of the Government of India, stated that Hindi cinema is a powerful medium of communication and cultural diplomacy. “Through this platform, we honour those visionaries who have devoted their lives to strengthening Hindi cinema and taking its message to every corner of the world,” he said.

The 9th Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman Samaroh 2025 added yet another distinguished chapter to the Global Film Festival Noida, celebrating excellence, commitment, and the enduring legacy of Hindi cinema on a truly national and international stage. Film Director and Secretary General ICMEI Ashok Tyagi introduced the awardees to the audience.