Category: News

Noida, India – The prestigious 7th Atal Bihari Vajpayee National Award for Promotion of Art & Culture took place with grandeur and grace during 10th Global Literary Festival Noida 2024, honoring remarkable contributions to India’s rich cultural heritage. The ceremony, held under the leadership of Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University of Media & Arts and President of ICMEI, marked another milestone in recognizing the nation’s finest artists, musicians, and cultural advocates

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, during his opening remarks, narrated the inception of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee National Awards, reflecting on his deep association with the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He described how the awards were established eight years ago with the purpose of promoting art and culture in Vajpayee’s name, a man known for his artistic sensibilities, oratory skills, and deep respect for India’s cultural landscape.

Shri Tirath Singh Rawat, Member of Parliament and former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, graced the occasion and shared a few heartfelt words, emphasizing the importance of preserving and promoting India’s diverse cultural traditions. He was honored with a Lifetime Membership of the International Film and Television Research Centre, along with a Memento of the Festival in recognition of his support for the arts.

The event celebrated the outstanding achievements of several distinguished individuals who were decorated with the Atal Bihari Vajpayee National Award for Promotion of Art & Culture:

• Padma Shri Ms. Rita Ganguly, an accomplished dancer, musician, and vocalist, who spoke passionately about her journey and the significance of this award in encouraging artists across disciplines.
• Pt. Ram Kumar Mishra, a renowned tabla maestro, expressed his gratitude and appreciated the festival’s gesture in acknowledging the efforts of those devoted to the arts.
• Prof. Dr. Arvind Alok, Chairman of BMDC, thanked the organizers for the recognition, noting the importance of such events in uplifting cultural practitioners.
• Dr. Mustafa Raza, a maestro of the Vichitra Veena, was deeply emotional as he expressed how much this recognition meant to him.
• Dr. Bhupesh Chandra Little, a renowned photographer, expressed his overwhelming joy and was thankful for the appreciation of his work.
• Prof. Puranchand Tandon, a Hindi author, shared that such national recognition was vital in encouraging literary artists to continue their work.
• Tapan Dash, a renowned painter, was amazed by the honor and pledged to continue his contribution to the world of visual arts.
• Karunesh Sharma, senior anchor and YouTuber, also took the stage to express his delight, emphasizing how recognition fuels creativity.

The evening concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Sushil Bharti, the Festival Director, who commended the efforts of all artists and dignitaries present, and reaffirmed the festival’s commitment to continuing its legacy of honoring those who make invaluable contributions to India’s cultural landscape.

The 7th Atal Bihari Vajpayee National Award reaffirmed the essential role of art and culture in shaping the national ethos, encouraging artists and cultural advocates to continue enriching society with their talent and passion.

The 10th Global Literary Festival witnessed a poignant tribute to one of India’s greatest scholars and statesmen, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. As part of the event, a special poster designed by the Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Forum, featuring a powerful image of the revered leader, was officially released.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University of Media & Arts and the visionary behind the festival, emphasized the significance of honoring such legendary figures. He noted that Dr. Radhakrishnan’s ideals continue to inspire generations of students and scholars, making him a symbol of intellectual pursuit and dedication to education.

The release ceremony was led by Sushil Bharti, Festival Director and Broadcasting Director of Marwah Studios, who shared heartfelt words of appreciation for Dr. Radhakrishnan’s immense contributions to education and philosophy. Bharti highlighted the ongoing relevance of Dr. Radhakrishnan’s work in today’s world, particularly his influence on the literary and academic communities.

The poster release added a reflective moment to the festival, emphasizing the importance of celebrating literary figures who have shaped modern thought. The audience was inspired by the legacy of Dr. Radhakrishnan, a philosopher who served as the second President of India and whose teachings continue to resonate globally.

The event was a key highlight of the Global Literary Festival, underlining its role in preserving and promoting the heritage of iconic intellectual figures.

A powerful seminar on the subject of “What Are the Issues in Publishing and Translating Books” was held during 10^th Global Literary Festival Noida 2024, gathering notable personalities from the fields of literature, publishing, and government. The seminar was led by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Festival President & Chancellor of AAFT University of Media & Arts, who provided deep insights into the challenges faced by the publishing and translation sectors.

Ruchi Sharma Kapoor, a renowned poet, shared her perspective on the subject, followed by Anil Varma, a well-known publisher from Star Publication & Hindi Book Centre, who spoke about the practical difficulties in book publishing. Noted writer/director Vivek Sharma also added valuable thoughts, while acclaimed author Vivek Mishra expressed his views on the intricacies of translation.

Raghubir Sharma, Assistant Director of the Department of Official Language, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, provided a comprehensive summary of the seminar. Prominent columnist and journalist Bharathi S Pradhan, from Mumbai, shared her experience in the field, while Shri Jagannath Sarkar, Member of the Lok Sabha, graced the event and blessed the participants. In recognition of his contribution, Shri Sarkar was honored with life membership of the prestigious International Film & Television Club.

As part of the event, a poster designed by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Forum, featuring Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, was also released, with words of appreciation shared by Sushil Bharti festival Director also Broadcasting Director of Marwah Studios.

In a significant moment, the cover of the upcoming book “Educate A Woman, Empower A Woman – Her Strength is her Empowerment”, written by Mr. Rinkku R Nigam, was officially launched. This book aims to inspire and motivate women, emphasizing the importance of education and empowerment in society.

The seminar concluded with the presentation of mementoes to the dignitaries, leaving the attendees with valuable insights into the future of publishing and translating literature.

New Delhi, India – Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), had the distinguished honor of meeting Hon’ble Loganathan Murugan, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, to brief him on the various initiatives and activities of ICMEI.

During the meeting, Dr. Marwah shared the ICMEI’s ongoing efforts to foster international collaboration in the fields of media and entertainment, highlighting the chamber’s commitment to promoting global cultural exchange and its contributions toward expanding India’s soft power on the world stage. The ICMEI, with its strong network and wide range of activities, has been instrumental in creating platforms for filmmakers, artists, and media professionals from different countries to collaborate and showcase their talent.

Dr. Marwah emphasized the chamber’s recent initiatives that aim to boost the Indian media and entertainment industry, and discussed ICMEI’s role in enhancing the exchange of creative content through film festivals, cultural events, and media partnerships globally. He also provided insights into the Indo-Film and Cultural Forums, which are helping to create bridges between India and several nations through the universal language of art and cinema.

Hon’ble Minister Murugan expressed his appreciation for the efforts being made by ICMEI to strengthen India’s presence in the global media and entertainment industry. “The role of media and entertainment is not only to entertain but also to inform, educate, and connect cultures. ICMEI’s initiatives align with our goals to enhance India’s contribution to global media, and I commend Dr. Marwah for his leadership in this area,” said Minister Murugan.

The meeting also touched upon future plans for ICMEI’s involvement in government initiatives aimed at promoting Indian culture and cinema abroad, and enhancing the growth of India’s media industries through skill development, collaboration, and innovation.

“It was a great pleasure and an honor to meet Hon’ble Minister Loganathan Murugan and share the vision and activities of ICMEI. His support is invaluable as we continue to contribute to India’s growing influence in the global media and entertainment landscape,” said Dr. Marwah, expressing his gratitude.

ICMEI continues to play a pivotal role in promoting India’s creative industries worldwide, ensuring that the country’s rich heritage in media and arts is recognized and celebrated on international platforms.

Noida, India – The AAFT School of Acting and Presentation at Noida Film City recently hosted an engaging and inspiring workshop conducted by renowned actor Vivaan Parashar. The workshop, designed to hone the skills of budding actors, focused on the nuances of performance, screen presence, and the art of effective communication in the film and television industry.

Vivaan Parashar, known for his versatile acting roles, brought his vast experience to the students, offering them valuable insights into the craft of acting. During the session, he emphasized the importance of authenticity in performance and the need for actors to connect deeply with their characters. “Acting is not about pretending; it’s about understanding the emotions and motivations of your character and conveying them truthfully,” said Parashar.

The workshop covered a range of topics, including voice modulation, body language, improvisation, and the critical importance of rehearsal and preparation in an actor’s journey. Parashar also shared behind-the-scenes stories from his own career, providing students with a firsthand look at the challenges and triumphs of working in the entertainment industry.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and founder of Noida Film City, expressed his gratitude to Vivaan Parashar for sharing his expertise with the students. “Workshops like these are vital for shaping the careers of aspiring actors. Learning from someone with real-world experience like Vivaan provides our students with the tools they need to succeed in this highly competitive field,” said Dr. Marwah.

The session concluded with an interactive Q&A, where students had the opportunity to ask questions and receive personalized advice on pursuing their acting careers. Parashar encouraged students to be persistent and passionate, stating, “Success in acting comes with dedication, hard work, and the ability to constantly learn and grow.”

The AAFT School of Acting and Presentation continues to offer students opportunities to learn from industry professionals, reinforcing its commitment to providing a world-class education in acting and media. This workshop is yet another step in empowering students to excel in their craft and make their mark in the entertainment industry.

Noida, India – The AAFT School of Cinema marked National Cinema Day with a grand celebration at Noida Film City, featuring insights from prominent figures in the global film industry. Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, led the event with a powerful keynote address on the vital role of cinema in shaping society and culture.

“Show business is the best business, and cinema is the most profound way to express ideas. It stands as the biggest brother of communication,” remarked Dr. Marwah during his address. Highlighting India’s global cinematic presence, he added, “We are the largest film-producing country in the world, with over 2,000 films made annually in 28 different languages. India’s 8,000 theatres entertain around 10 million people every day, with 5 billion tickets sold each year.”

The event was attended by students, faculty, and special guests, all united in their passion for cinema and its impact on communication and culture.

Dr. Ajit Pathak, President of the Public Relations Society of India (PRSI), spoke about the symbiotic relationship between cinema and public relations. “Cinema not only entertains but also plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion. It is a tool that connects people with stories and causes, fostering a deeper understanding of societal issues.”

Mike Berry of Universal Studios, Los Angeles, USA, also shared his thoughts, emphasizing the global influence of Indian cinema. “Indian cinema has a unique power to transcend borders and connect with audiences worldwide. The scale of its production and the diversity of its stories are truly impressive, and it continues to be a source of inspiration for filmmakers globally.”

The National Cinema Day celebration served as a platform for aspiring filmmakers and media professionals to engage with industry veterans and understand the evolving landscape of cinema. The event concluded with a vibrant Q&A session, where students gained valuable insights into the future of filmmaking, distribution, and the integration of technology in storytelling.

The AAFT School of Cinema, renowned for its pioneering role in media education, once again reinforced its commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to the ever-expanding world of cinema.

Noida: The Asian Academy of Arts proudly presented the 5th Edition of the Suraj Parkash Marwah Sahitya Ratan Awards during the 10th Global Literary Festival Noida 2024. The event, designed to honor excellence in writing, saw the selection of a few highly prominent literary figures for this prestigious recognition.

“I am both pleased and honored to present the Suraj Parkash Marwah Sahitya Ratan Awards to the most deserving individuals from across the globe, who have demonstrated exceptional talent in the field of writing,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University and founder of Noida Film City.

The awards were conferred upon distinguished writers and poets, including Dr. Sneh Thakore, renowned author from Canada, Arun Kumar Jain, Dr. Vandana Mishra, Kamlesh Bhartiya, Pratibha Johri, Poornima Rai, Neelam Khemka, Renu Hussain, Dr. Kavita Vikas, and Mamta Soni, all renowned figures in literature and education.

The occasion was further elevated by the presence of notable dignitaries including Her Excellency Eva Goras Vryonides, High Commissioner of Cyprus, Inderjeet Sharma, Director of the International Hindi Association USA, poet Prem Bhardwaj ‘Gyanbhikshu,’ Hiroyuki Nakano, Senior Director of JETRO Japan, Dr. Divik Ramesh, renowned author, and Her Excellency Capaya Rodriguez Gonzalez, Ambassador of Venezuela. Dr. D. R. Kaarthikeyan, former Director of the CBI, also graced the event with his presence.

The awards continue to uphold the legacy of Suraj Parkash Marwah, celebrating literary excellence and fostering creativity and intellectual growth within the global writing community.

Noida, [Insert Date]: The 5th Edition of the prestigious Suraj Parkash Marwah Sahitya Ratan Awards was inaugurated as part of the 10th Global Literary Festival in Noida. The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Her Excellency Eva Goras Vryonides, High Commissioner of Cyprus, Inderjeet Sharma, Director of the International Hindi Association USA, renowned poet Prem Bhardwaj ‘Gyanbhikshu’, Hiroyuki Nakano, Senior Director of JETRO Japan, Dr. Divik Ramesh, a celebrated author, and Her Excellency Capaya Rodriguez Gonzalez, Ambassador of Venezuela. Dr. D. R. Kaarthikeyan, former Director of the CBI, also took part in the ceremonial lighting of the lamp to commence the award function.

The Suraj Parkash Marwah Sahitya Ratan Award, established in honor of the late father of Dr. Sandeep Marwah, recognizes and promotes excellence in literature and writing across all forms and languages, including poetry, prose, and fiction. The award stands as a tribute to those who have significantly contributed to the literary world.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah expressed his deep emotional connection with the award, stating, “I am emotional about this award as it is named after my father. My father always emphasized the importance of education, reading, writing, speaking, and listening. He consistently encouraged everyone to come forward, strive for excellence, and do well in life.”

The event highlighted the enduring legacy of Suraj Parkash Marwah, whose values continue to inspire the promotion of literature and learning.

Noida, India – October 2024 – The 10th Global Literary Festival Noida 2024 celebrated an exciting culinary event with the introduction of a Japanese Food Festival, supported by the Indo-Japan Film and Cultural Forum. The festival was inaugurated by Mr. Hiroyuki Nakano, Senior Director of JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization), a Japanese government-related organization that promotes mutually beneficial trade and investment relations. The exquisite menu featured authentic Japanese dishes, designed and prepared by the talented students of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism.

The food festival offered festival-goers an immersive experience into the refined flavors of Japan, with a variety of traditional Japanese delicacies such as sushi, tempura, ramen, and mochi, crafted with care and precision. The event not only showcased the rich culinary heritage of Japan but also underscored the importance of cultural exchange between India and Japan through the shared experience of food.

Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Global Literary Festival Noida and Founder of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), emphasized the festival’s broader cultural mission. He said, “This Japanese Food Festival is a symbol of the deep cultural ties between India and Japan. It exemplifies how food can transcend borders, offering an opportunity to appreciate and learn from each other’s traditions. The students of AAFT have once again demonstrated their excellence in bringing international flavors to life.”

Mr. Hiroyuki Nakano, Senior Director of JETRO, expressed his delight in witnessing the fusion of education and cultural diplomacy at the festival. He remarked, “Food is a central part of Japan’s identity, and sharing it with others helps build bridges between nations. I am thoroughly impressed by the dedication of the students and the quality of the dishes presented today. This initiative reflects the strong and growing relationship between Japan and India, not only in trade and investment but also in cultural collaboration.”

The Japanese Food Festival was a prominent highlight of the 10th Global Literary Festival Noida 2024, allowing guests to savor the authentic taste of Japan while experiencing the festival’s ethos of global unity and cultural celebration.

Noida, India – October 2024 – A vibrant celebration of Cypriot cuisine was one of the major highlights of the 10th Global Literary Festival Noida 2024, with a special Food Festival showcasing the culinary traditions of Cyprus. Supported by the Indo-Cyprus Film and Cultural Forum, the festival was inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Evagoras Vryonides, the distinguished High Commissioner of Cyprus to India, and featured an exquisite array of Cypriot dishes prepared by the students of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism.

The event brought the rich flavors of Cyprus to India, from fresh halloumi cheese and savory souvlaki to traditional moussaka and delicious baklava. This exciting collaboration between Cyprus and India through the medium of food served as a reminder of the deep cultural connections between the two nations.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Global Literary Festival and Founder of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), emphasized the role of food in bringing people together. He stated, “Food is a universal bridge that connects cultures, and this Cypriot Food Festival reflects the warmth and camaraderie between Cyprus and India. We are proud to present this culinary journey, which adds to the global flavor of the festival.”

In his remarks, H.E. Mr. Evagoras Vryonides, High Commissioner of Cyprus to India, expressed his appreciation for the effort put in by the AAFT students in crafting an authentic Cypriot dining experience. He said, “Food is a significant part of our culture, and it brings people closer, fostering mutual understanding and friendship. I am delighted to see the students here embracing and presenting the unique flavors of Cyprus so beautifully.”

The food festival was a highlight of the 10th Global Literary Festival Noida 2024, providing a culinary experience that complemented the event’s broader aim of promoting cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. Attendees were treated to a range of delectable dishes, allowing them to immerse themselves in the culinary heritage of Cyprus while celebrating the festival’s multicultural ethos.

Noida, India – October 2024 – The 10th Global Literary Festival Noida 2024 took a delectable turn with the introduction of a unique Food Festival, showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of Venezuela. Organized by the Indo-Venezuela Film and Cultural Forum, the event was a celebration of culinary arts and cultural diplomacy. The festival was inaugurated by H.E. Capaya Rodriguez Gonzalez, the esteemed Ambassador of Venezuela to India, and featured authentic Venezuelan dishes designed and prepared by the talented students of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism.

The event brought together food enthusiasts and literary patrons alike, offering a taste of Venezuela’s vibrant culinary heritage. From traditional arepas to empanadas and exotic desserts, the food festival demonstrated the power of cuisine to bridge cultures and create lasting bonds between nations.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) and Founder of the Global Literary Festival, highlighted the significance of the collaboration between India and Venezuela, saying, “This food festival is a true celebration of cultural exchange. Through the lens of culinary arts, we strengthen the ties of friendship and mutual respect between our two nations.”

In her address, H.E. Capaya Rodriguez Gonzalez, the Venezuelan Ambassador, expressed her delight in witnessing the young chefs from the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism embrace and present the flavors of Venezuela. “Food is a universal language,” she remarked, “and through events like this, we promote understanding, unity, and shared experiences between countries.”

The festival was an important highlight of the 10th Global Literary Festival Noida, reinforcing its mission to foster cross-cultural dialogue not only through literature but also through the rich and varied traditions of world cuisines.

The event concluded with enthusiastic applause from the audience, who savored every bite while appreciating the effort and dedication put into the festival by the students and faculty of AAFT. Alfredo Caldera Counsellor Embassy of Venezuela was also present there.

Dublin, 3rd October 2024: The 15th edition of the prestigious Indian Film Festival of Ireland (IFFI) was inaugurated by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, an internationally acclaimed film, television, and media personality, and the Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT University. The festival, running from 3rd to 6th October 2024, was hosted at the state-of-the-art theatre at UCD University in Dublin, under the leadership of renowned actor and festival director Siraj Zaidi.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Sandeep Marwah highlighted the powerful role that films play in showcasing the cultural richness of nations. “Films are the best way to project the culture of any country, and film festivals are extraordinary platforms to spotlight these cinematic gems,” said Dr. Marwah. He expressed his gratitude to Siraj Zaidi and the festival’s organizing team for their dedication in curating such an impactful event that celebrates the art of Indian cinema in Ireland. “It is a matter of pride that Indian films are appreciated globally, including in Ireland, and I congratulate the team for their incredible work,” he added.

Dr. Marwah also spoke about the unifying force of films, emphasizing how they foster love, peace, and harmony among people from diverse backgrounds. He praised the impeccable hospitality and arrangements made by Dublin to welcome filmmakers and their teams from India and around the world.

Festival director Siraj Zaidi expressed his gratitude to Dr. Sandeep Marwah for gracing the occasion and acknowledged his immense contributions to the world of cinema. “We are honored to have a living legend like Dr. Sandeep Marwah with us at the festival. Indian cinema is gaining recognition worldwide, and this festival has now become a significant cultural event in Ireland,” said Zaidi.

The festival opened with the screening of the highly anticipated film “Mujib: The Making of a Nation,” a co-production between India and Bangladesh. The film, written by acclaimed writer Atul Tiwari and directed by veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal, explores the life and legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh.

The event was also graced by several notable figures, including Atul Tiwari, renowned writer and actor; Satish Sharma, actor, model, and director; Shakeba Umar, social entrepreneur; and Prabha Mishra, film producer from India.

As Dr. Marwah plans to attend the entire festival, he expressed his enthusiasm for watching as many films as possible during his stay in Dublin. The Indian Film Festival of Ireland continues to serve as a bridge between Indian and Irish cinema, showcasing the creativity and diversity of the Indian film industry to an international audience.