Category: News

New Delhi: In a heartfelt farewell ceremony, the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) extended its sincere gratitude to H.E. Alejendro, the Ambassador of Cuba, for his unwavering support in fostering the development and promotion of art and culture in both India and Cuba.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University and Chair of the Indo Cuba Film And Cultural Forum, expressed deep appreciation for Ambassador Alejendro’s significant contributions, particularly in the establishment of the first-ever Indo Cuba Film And Cultural Forum. Dr. Marwah hailed the Ambassador’s efforts as the foundation of a lasting legacy, highlighting the strength and richness of Cuban art and culture.

“Cuba may be a small country, but its art and culture are very powerful. The establishment of the first-ever Indo Cuba Film And Cultural Forum by the Ambassador will emerge as the legacy of his hard work,” remarked Dr. Sandeep Marwah during the farewell event.

The Indo Cuba Film And Cultural Forum, initiated under Ambassador Alejendro’s leadership, stands as a testament to the strong cultural ties nurtured between the two nations. The forum has played a pivotal role in facilitating artistic exchanges, promoting mutual understanding, and fostering collaboration in the field of media and entertainment.

As Ambassador Alejendro concludes his tenure in India, Sandeep Marwah expressed confidence in his continued guidance even from afar. He presented a memento of remembrance to the departing Ambassador, symbolizing the enduring partnership and the work that lies ahead for ICMEI.

“We bid goodbye to the Ambassador, but he has left ample work for us to complete. We wish him a very pleasant flight back home and a very bright future on completion of his tenure as Ambassador in India. As a patron, I am sure he will keep on guiding us,” added Dr. Marwah.

The farewell ceremony marked a poignant moment of appreciation and camaraderie, celebrating the successful collaboration between India and Cuba in the realms of art and culture.

New Delhi: In a significant move to strengthen cultural ties between India and Cuba, H.E. Wilfredo Gonzaley Vidal, the First Deputy Communication Minister of Cuba, was honored as the Patron of the Indo Cuba Film and Cultural Forum. The announcement was made by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University and Chair of the Indo Cuba Film and Cultural Forum, during a special event at PHDCCI in New Delhi to welcome the distinguished Minister, the Ambassador of Cuba, and the Cuban delegation.

Expressing gratitude for the esteemed role taken up by H.E. Wilfredo Gonzaley Vidal, Dr. Sandeep Marwah underscored the significance of his patronship in furthering the development of relations between India and Cuba. The Indo Cuba Film and Cultural Forum, under Dr. Marwah’s leadership, aims to create a robust platform for cultural exchange and collaboration between the two nations.

“We feel honored in presenting Patronship of Indo Cuba Film and Cultural Forum to H.E. Wilfredo Gonzaley Vidal, the First Deputy Communication Minister of Cuba, on his arrival to New Delhi, India. We need his blessings to move further in developing relations between India and Cuba,” remarked Dr. Sandeep Marwah during the welcoming ceremony.

H.E. Wilfredo Gonzaley Vidal expressed his gratitude for this prestigious gesture, acknowledging the importance of cultural diplomacy in fostering stronger ties between nations.

H.E. Alejandro Marin, the Ambassador of Cuba to India, also appreciated Dr. Sandeep Marwah’s initiative and the establishment of a cultural bridge between India and Cuba through the Indo Cuba Film and Cultural Forum.

The event marked a significant step forward in the collaborative efforts to enhance cultural understanding and goodwill between the people of India and Cuba.

Mumbai: In a momentous occasion at Soundideaz Studio, Andheri (West), Mumbai, the recording of the inaugural song for the much-anticipated feature film “Godaan” has been successfully completed. The film is presented by the esteemed Deen Dayal Kamdhenu Cow Research Centre, with eminent producers Sandeep Marwah and Vinod K. Choudhary leading the creative charge.

The recording session commenced with the auspicious breaking of the coconut and worship of Lord Shri Ganesha by Dr. Satish, the provincial director of Mumbai Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. The event witnessed the online presence of key figures, including Jayanand Kumar (National Executive Member Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh), Bala Saheb Chaudhary Karwa (Area Sangh Director, West Uttar Pradesh), Mahesh Gupta (President, Kamdhenu Gau Research Center, Mathura), Harishankar (Kamdhenu Research Center, Mathura), Mahendra Ji Bhai Saheb (Area Pracharak, West), along with workers and officials from Uttar Pradesh/Uttarakhand and various union committees, connected via Zoom to witness the historic recording.

Adding an extra layer of celebration, the production team marked the birthday of the illustrious producer, Sandeep Marwah, by cutting a cake within the recording studio. Renowned Bollywood singer Shaan, along with a dynamic chorus, lent their voices to the soul-stirring song titled ‘Jai Gau Jai Gopala…,’ penned by the prolific lyricist Sameer.

Based on the timeless narrative from the legendary writer Munshi Premchand, “Godaan” is helmed by the acclaimed Indian film director Ashok Tyagi. The film boasts a stellar team, including cinematographer Binod Pradhan, action director Babbu Khanna, sound maestro Anoop Dev, and music composer Riju Roy.

This collaboration between Sandeep Marwah, Vinod K. Choudhary, and the Deen Dayal Kamdhenu Cow Research Centre promises to deliver a cinematic masterpiece that resonates with the cultural and literary richness of Munshi Premchand’s iconic work.

Noida: In a strategic move towards fostering a culture of Scouts and Guides in India, Anil Pratham, the National Chief Commissioner of Hindustan Scouts and Guides Association, paid a visit to Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the World Peace Development and Research Foundation and Chancellor of AAFT University of Media and Arts.

During the meeting, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, a longstanding advocate of Scouts and Guides initiatives, offered a range of voluntary services and innovative ideas to Anil Pratham. The discussions aimed at propelling the organization to new heights both nationally and internationally, showcasing Marwah’s commitment to the Scouts and Guides movement.

Anil Pratham, an IPS officer of the 1989 batch and former Director General Police (Gujrat Cadre), engaged in fruitful conversations with Dr. Sandeep Marwah. They deliberated on upcoming events and initiatives to enhance the impact and reach of the Hindustan Scouts and Guides Association.

Expressing his gratitude for the support and ideas presented by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Anil Pratham extended an invitation to the esteemed Chancellor to become an integral part of the Association, recognizing his valuable contribution to the Scouts and Guides movement.

Radio Noida 107.4 FM, a venture of Marwah Studios, captured the essence of Anil Pratham’s visit for national broadcast, further amplifying the collaboration and engagement between the Hindustan Scouts and Guides Association and the World Peace Development and Research Foundation.

This collaboration marks a significant step in aligning the forces of education, peace, and community service, showcasing a shared commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering values that contribute to a harmonious society.

Noida: In a significant stride towards fostering cultural and artistic ties between India and Poland, the Indo Polish Film and Cultural Forum, under the aegis of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), proudly welcomes esteemed Polish lawyer Judyta Latymowicz as the co-Chairperson.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of ICMEI and Chair for Indo Polish Film and Cultural Forum, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We must promote Indo Polish relations through art and culture.” He went on to announce Poland’s participation in the celebration of the International Day of Journalism on 12th February, followed by the Global Festival of Journalism Noida 2024 from 12th to 14th February.

Judyta Latymowicz, co-founder and partner of Legally Smart, heads the Asian and India Desk and serves as the co-chair of the Polish Division of the Indian National Association of Legal Professionals (INALP). With a rich background as an academic lecturer and trainer specializing in the business culture of India and Bangladesh, Judyta is a distinguished member of the Warsaw Bar Association in Poland since 2013.

Expressing her commitment to strengthening Indo-Polish relations, Judyta remarked, “I am honored to be part of this event and will give my best to promote the activities of ICMEI and the Indo Polish Film and Cultural Forum.”

The appointment of Judyta Latymowicz as co-Chairperson reflects the Forum’s dedication to leveraging legal expertise and cultural insights to deepen the bond between India and Poland. As the Forum gears up for the Global Festival of Journalism Noida 2024, it anticipates a vibrant exchange of ideas and collaborations under Judyta’s leadership.

Srinagar: The recent visit to Kashmir by members of ICMEI (International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry) has sparked a transformative decision to incorporate the enchanting destination into the academic curriculum of AAFT (Asian Academy of Film and Television). This strategic initiative is poised to offer students a comprehensive and immersive learning experience in the dynamic fields of hospitality, tourism, cinema, still photography, and mass communication, drawing upon the unparalleled beauty and cultural richness of Kashmir.

Under the leadership of Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT University, the successful tour covered pivotal locations such as Srinagar, the capital of the state, Pahalgam, Chandanwari, and Gulmarg. Dr. Marwah conveyed his enthusiasm for the abundant learning opportunities that Kashmir presents to students, emphasizing the need for a curriculum that extends beyond the traditional classroom setting.

“The picturesque landscapes and diverse cultural experiences in Kashmir have uncovered a myriad of untapped narratives for our students,” expressed Dr. Sandeep Marwah. “Our educational journey to Kashmir is designed to be more than just a tour; it is a holistic experience that enriches our students and broadens their perspectives.”

Dr. Marwah underscored the potential for AAFT students of Mass Communication and Journalism to discover compelling stories through engaging with the local Kashmiri population. The untouched areas by filmmakers and still photographers present a unique canvas for creative exploration and storytelling, providing a valuable platform for students to hone their skills.

The tour also shed light on the burgeoning demand for skilled professionals in Kashmir’s thriving hospitality industry. Visits to renowned establishments such as Hotel Pahalgam, ITC Pike and Peak, and Lalit Hotel in Srinagar revealed a keen interest in recruiting well-trained manpower from educational institutions like AAFT.

As AAFT University expands its horizons to encompass the captivating allure of Kashmir in its academic syllabus, students can anticipate an educational journey that seamlessly integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on experiences. This initiative aims to mold students into not only proficient but also culturally sensitive professionals in the fields of hospitality, tourism, cinema, still photography, and mass communication.

New Delhi: In a momentous ceremony of Karuna Diwas held at Adhyatm Sadhna Kendra New Delhi by Ladakh Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, His Holiness Bhikku Sangasen bestowed an esteemed honor upon Dr. Sandeep Marwah, the President of Marwah Studios and Chancellor of AAFT University. Dr. Marwah’s extensive contributions to spirituality, peace-building, and cultural exchange were acknowledged during the event.

As the President of the World Peace Development and Research Foundation, operating in 156 countries, Dr. Sandeep Marwah has been tirelessly working towards fostering global harmony through the mediums of art and culture. Additionally, he holds the position of President of the Asian Unity Alliance, dedicated to promoting love, peace, and unity among Asian nations.

Dr. Marwah has played a pivotal role in internationalizing the practice of yoga, having reached out to 30,000 students from 145 countries through the Prithvi Yoga Centre. His commitment to spiritual causes extends to his patronage of several organizations, including the Confederation of World Religion, Global Yog Alliance, ISKON, Brahma Kumaris, and his association with the Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre in Ladakh.

Addressing the audience, Dr. Sandeep Marwah shared profound insights into the essence of spirituality and its transformative power in shaping a harmonious world. He emphasized the role of art, culture, and yoga in promoting inner peace and fostering understanding among diverse communities.

In return, H.H. Holiness Bhikku Sangasen, the spiritual leader of the Ladakh Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, acknowledged Dr. Marwah’s significant contributions and presented awards to spiritual leaders from various parts of the country and abroad.

The ceremony served as a testament to Dr. Sandeep Marwah’s unwavering commitment to spiritual values, peace, and cultural exchange, reinforcing his position as a leading figure in the global pursuit of harmony and unity.

Noida: The grand finale of the 16th Global Film Festival Noida unfolded in a spectacular Fashion Show organized by the School of Fashion and Design, leaving the audience enchanted with a blend of timeless and contemporary designs. The event commenced with a graceful lamp-lighting ceremony by the esteemed Chancellor of AAFT University of Media and Arts, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, and a renowned model from the industry.

This year’s fashion walk showcased a harmonious blend of traditional and modern designs, infused with the essence of Indian cinema. The theme of the show was ingeniously divided into five sequences, drawing inspiration from iconic figures such as Princess Diana, the legendary film “Padmavat,” and the iconic Marilyn Monroe.

Models graced the stage with elegance, adorned in both Indian and Christian bridal wear, beautifully interpreting the themed sequences. The depiction of wedding scenes resonated with the audience, capturing the magic of the moments. Prof. S G Babu, Dean of the School of Fashion and Design, described this year’s collection as a fusion of “retro with a touch of modernity.”

Sagar Malhotra, a modeling student, expressed the valuable lessons learned through fashion walks, emphasizing the role of confidence in self-expression and the validation of the designer’s efforts.

The Princess Diana-inspired theme showcased the early days of British royalty, with models adorned in shades of ivory to convey simplicity and grace. Following this, a collection inspired by “Padmavat” brought to life the regal Rajasthani attire and Rajputana vibes, invoking a sense of nostalgia for everyone present.

Closing the show, models took inspiration from the iconic Marilyn Monroe, presenting styles reminiscent of the actress’s glamorous life.

The Fashion Show reached its crescendo with a vote of thanks delivered by Festival President Dr. Sandeep Marwah, who appreciated the remarkable efforts of the fashion students and applauded the mesmerizing display of creativity and talent.

The 16th Global Film Festival Noida concluded on a high note, celebrating the convergence of cinema, fashion, and artistic expression.

oida:  The 16th Global Film Festival at Marwah Studios Noida reached new heights on its third day with a thought-provoking seminar titled “The New Hope of Indian Cinema Noida Film City Part II.” The event brought together eminent personalities from the film industry, trade, and hospitality sectors, fostering discussions on the burgeoning potential of Noida Film City Part II in shaping the future of Indian cinema.

Addressing the audience, Festival President Dr. Sandeep Marwah, who is also the founder of Noida Film City, highlighted the significance of Noida Film City Part II as a catalyst for a new era in Indian cinema. He emphasized that the expansion symbolizes the growing influence of Indian cinema, providing a platform for diverse voices and storytelling.

Dr. Viney Sarikonda, the Brazil & Latin American Countries Trade Commissioner, lauded Noida Film City Part II as a cultural bridge, bringing the vibrancy of Indian cinema to the global stage and fostering international collaborations.

Renowned Director AAFTian Akshay Chaubey expressed optimism about the immense potential of the new facilities at Noida Film City Part II, inspiring the next generation of storytellers. Similarly, Renowned Actor  Shiny Dixit highlighted the bright future for actors, given the state-of-the-art infrastructure available to bring compelling stories to life.

 Pooja Gogia, a prominent figure in the hospitality industry, shared her insights, stating that the evolution of Noida Film City reflects the synergy between entertainment and entrepreneurship, creating opportunities for diverse talents in the industry.

Bhawana Agarwal emphasized the need for the expansion of the film business in India, emphasizing the positive impact on the industry’s growth.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah felicitated all the esteemed guests with festival mementos, and Ms. Pooja Gogia received a Certificate of Excellence in recognition of her outstanding contributions.

The interactive session concluded with a vote of thanks by Festival Director Ashok Tyagi, acknowledging the enriching discussions and insights shared during the seminar.

Noida: The third day of the 16th Global Film Festival witnessed an enlightening workshop on the significance of makeup in cinema, organized by the School of Fashion and Design. Renowned makeup artist Sonali Gupta graced the event, offering students valuable insights into the art of makeup for the silver screen.

Festival President of GFFN, Sandeep Marwah, expressed the crucial role of makeup in cinema, citing its benefits in achieving better visuals, developing authentic characters, and enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

During the interactive session, film delegates  enthusiastically posed questions about the essential considerations before applying makeup to a character. Sonali Gupta emphasized that makeup serves as the character’s second skin, enhancing facial features that may be washed out by multiple lights when in front of the camera.

Highlighting the importance of makeup, Gupta conveyed that it plays a pivotal role in character identification and brings characters to life on screen. The workshop featured a live demonstration, allowing students to grasp the intricacies of makeup application. Gupta delved into the nuances of color corrections in makeup, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the art.

The event was not only informative but also interactive, providing students with a hands-on experience of the makeup application process. Concluding the workshop, a vote of thanks was extended by Harsh Sharma of AAFT, expressing gratitude to Sonali Gupta for sharing her expertise. To commemorate the occasion, a festive memento was presented to Sonali Gupta, acknowledging her contribution to the education and understanding of makeup in the world of cinema.

AAFT at the 16th Global Film Festival Noida continues to be a beacon of knowledge, bringing industry experts and students together to foster learning and excellence in the field of filmmaking.

Noida: A captivating film screening from Romania, “The Father Who Moves Mountains,” took center stage at the 16th Global Film Festival Noida, organized by the Indo-Romanian Forum. The event, supported by the Embassy of Romania, witnessed the presence of Chancellor of AAFT University of Media and Arts, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, who shared his appreciation for Romanian cinema and shed light on the intricacies of inter-cultural affairs.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah also highlighted the various activities initiated by the Indo-Romanian Film and Cultural Forum, established in collaboration with the Embassy of Romania, aimed at fostering relations between the people of India and Romania through the medium of film and culture.

Ambassador of Romania, Ms. Daniella Tane, expressed her admiration for Romanian cinema, describing it as a realistic portrayal of life. She shared her passion for cinema and art, taking the audience on a journey exploring the commonalities between Indian and Romanian cultures based on shared values, folklore, and traditions.

Diplomat of Romania, Mr. Paul Seznov, engaged with the audience by extending greetings in Hindi and introducing the film “The Father Who Moves Mountains.” The film, based on a true story, delves into the profound theme of fatherhood, weaving a compelling saga.

In recognition of the outstanding contribution to cinema and cultural exchange, Dr. Sandeep Marwah presented the prestigious Hindi Samarthak Award to HE Daniella Tane, acknowledging her role in strengthening cultural ties between the two nations. Additionally, the film received the coveted Award of Distinction, underlining its exceptional artistic and narrative merit.

The ceremony celebrated the collaborative spirit between India and Romania, bringing together cinema enthusiasts and cultural aficionados. The Indo-Romanian Forum, through such initiatives, continues to contribute to the global tapestry of cinematic excellence and cross-cultural understanding.

Noida: The third day of the 16th Global Film Festival Noida witnessed an engaging seminar delving into the “Correlation between literature and cinema.” Organized under the guidance of Festival President Dr. Sandeep Marwah, the event celebrated the interwoven narrative between words and images, presenting a symphony of storytelling that resonates across diverse cultures.

During this enlightening session, Festival President Dr. Sandeep Marwah, along with esteemed dignitaries, unveiled the book “The Definitive Biography Talat Mehmood” by Sahar Zaman, adding a significant literary touch to the festival.

Marwah expressed admiration for the cultural tapestry woven by literature and cinema, recognizing it as an art form that transcends linguistic and geographic boundaries. Renowned Actor Abhishek Duhan emphasized the profound connection between acting and literature, stating, “Acting is the art of breathing life into words, and literature provides the script for the cinema of our imagination.”

Renowned Composer and Singer Hriju Roy highlighted the role of music as a bridge connecting literature and cinema, transforming words into lyrical notes that dance through cinematic landscapes. Author Prem Singh Dhingra eloquently described the journey from the written page to the cinematic stage as a beautiful correlation between literature and cinema.

Actor and Singer Aroon Bakshi celebrated the relationship between words and visuals through the lens of cinema, creating a timeless composition. He expressed, “Literature is the mother of Cinema.” Renowned Director Pankaj Parashar described directing as a dialogue between literature and cinema, where every scene speaks the language of words written and images envisioned.

Hon. Consul General of Comoros K L Ganju acknowledged film festivals as bridges where the written word meets the visual narrative, fostering a harmonious connection between literature and cinema. Filmmaker from the USA Mike Berry eloquently stated, “Cinema is the canvas where literature paints its stories in vivid motion, transcending pages to captivate hearts.”

The distinguished guests were felicitated with festival mementos by Dr. Sandeep Marwah. Furthermore, Abhishek Duhan and Rajendra Parsekar were honored with the Hindi Cinema Gaurav Samman, adding another layer of recognition to their contributions. The session concluded on an interactive note, with a Vote of Thanks proposed by Festival Director Ashok Tyagi.