MEDIA NEWS: February 2026

Sunday, February 1, 2026

Dr Sandeep Marwah Inaugurates National Education Summit, Calls for a New Definition of Education Aligned with NEP

New Delhi: It was a moment of pride an
d purpose as Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and President of Marwah Studios, inaugurated the National Education Summit at Holiday Inn. The summit was organized by Dr Priyadarshi Nayak, Chairman of the CED India Foundation, and brought together leading educationists, policymakers, and academic leaders from across the country.

While initiating the programme, Dr Priyadarshi Nayak spoke about the present structure of the Indian education system and the urgent need for innovation, relevance, and global alignment to meet the aspirations of India’s youth.

Addressing the august gathering, Dr Sandeep Marwah expressed gratitude for being recognized as a global case study across 27 countries, ranked among the world’s top ten film schools, and for playing a pioneering role in bringing a revolution in the Indian education system through skill-based, industry-driven, and globally connected education.

In his powerful address, Dr Marwah presented a new definition of education in the context of the New Education Policy (NEP), emphasizing creativity, innovation, entrepreneurship, ethics, employability, and global exposure. He underlined that education must go beyond degrees to build character, competence, and confidence, preparing students to become global citizens and leaders of tomorrow. His address received wide appreciation from educationists representing institutions from all parts of India.

The summit was further enriched by the address of Dr Alok Kumar Gupta, Deputy Director, National Institute of Open Schooling, Ministry of Education, Government of India, who shared insights on inclusive education, lifelong learning, and the expanding role of open and flexible education systems in national development.

The Inaugural session of National Education Summit concluded on a high note, reaffirming a collective commitment to reimagining education in India in line with global standards, national priorities, and the transformative vision of the New Education Policy.

Dr Sandeep Marwah Inaugurates Fourth Edition of LuxuryDot.PR Influencers Awards

New Delhi: Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and President of Marwah Studios, had the pleasure of inaugurating the fourth edition of the “LuxuryDot.PR Influencers Awards” at Four Points by Sheraton. The prestigious event was organized by Richa Mehta, Founder and President of LuxuryDot.PR, and brought together leading influencers, creators, and achievers from diverse fields.

Dr Marwah formally inaugurated the ceremony and was honoured for his deep involvement in promoting Indian art and culture across the globe before he presented awards to the influencers. Widely recognized for his contribution to cultural diplomacy, Dr Marwah is not only a Cultural Ambassador of India but also serves as a cultural representative for a large number of countries in India, strengthening international cultural relations through cinema, education, and creative exchange.

Addressing the large gathering of awardees and guests, Dr Sandeep Marwah motivated the influencers to work with dedication, purpose, and integrity, and to collectively take Indian art and culture to new global heights. He emphasized the growing responsibility of influencers in shaping public opinion and reminded them of their duty toward the nation and society.

During his address, Dr Marwah also invited everyone to participate in the forthcoming 14th Global Festival of Journalism Noida, to be held at Marwah Studios, highlighting it as a unique international platform dedicated to constructive journalism and global media dialogue.

Speaking on the occasion, Richa Mehta expressed her gratitude to Dr Sandeep Marwah for inaugurating the awards and for his constant encouragement to creative professionals and influencers. She acknowledged his inspirational leadership and his relentless efforts in positioning India as a global hub for culture, media, and creative industries.

The fourth edition of the LuxuryDot.PR Influencers Awards concluded on an inspiring note, celebrating excellence, influence, and the shared commitment to cultural growth and social responsibility.

Indo–Russia Film and Cultural Forum Welcomes Russian Delegation at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: The Indo–Russia Film and Cultural Forum warmly welcomed a high-level delegation from Russia during their visit to Marwah Studios, marking another significant step toward strengthening cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Russia.

The delegation was led by Alyona Dolgopolova, State Secretary of the World Peoples Assembly, along with Svetlana Smirnova, Chairperson of the General Council of the World Peoples Assembly. The delegation was accompanied by officials from the Embassy of Russia in India.

During the interaction, discussions focused on enhancing cooperation between India and Russia through cinema, culture, and people-to-people engagement. It was announced that an India–Russia Joint Conference is being planned in the national capital, New Delhi, with World Peace as its central theme. The proposed conference aims to bring together thought leaders, cultural ambassadors, and policymakers from both countries to promote harmony, dialogue, and mutual understanding.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Chair of the Indo–Russia Film and Cultural Forum and Founder of Noida Film City, said that India and Russia share a long-standing relationship rooted in trust, cultural exchange, and mutual respect. He emphasized that film and culture are powerful instruments of soft diplomacy and can play a vital role in spreading the message of global peace.

As a gesture of goodwill and shared commitment to peace, Dr Sandeep Marwah presented the Life Membership of the World Peace Development and Research Foundation to Alyona Dolgopolova, acknowledging her contribution to global peace initiatives.

Expressing her appreciation, Alyona Dolgopolova thanked Dr Marwah and the Indo–Russia Film and Cultural Forum for the warm welcome and support, and highlighted the importance of collaborative international platforms in addressing global challenges through dialogue and unity.

Svetlana Smirnova also appreciated the initiatives taken by Marwah Studios and the forum, stating that cultural cooperation between India and Russia can serve as a strong foundation for promoting peace, understanding, and people-centric diplomacy worldwide.

The visit concluded on a positive and forward-looking note, reaffirming the shared resolve of both nations to work together for world peace through culture, cinema, and meaningful global partnerships.

Dr Sandeep Marwah Attends High-Level Conference at Embassy of Palestine During Visit of Palestinian Foreign Minister

New Delhi: Dr Sandeep Marwah, Chair of the Indo-Palestine Film and Cultural Forum and Founder of Noida Film City, attended a high-level diplomatic conference organized by the Embassy of Palestine in India on the occasion of the official visit of Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, Hon’ble Foreign Minister of the State of Palestine.

The conference was hosted by H.E. Abdullah Abu Shawesh, Ambassador of Palestine to India, and was attended by Ambassadors, High Commissioners, diplomats, and other prominent dignitaries from New Delhi. The gathering provided a significant platform to understand the current situation in Palestine and to engage in informed dialogue on regional developments.

Addressing the distinguished audience, the Hon’ble Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin presented an overview of the prevailing political and humanitarian circumstances in Palestine, highlighting ongoing challenges and emphasizing the importance of international engagement, dialogue, and solidarity.

Speaking on the sidelines of the conference, Dr Sandeep Marwah expressed appreciation for the Embassy’s initiative in facilitating meaningful diplomatic exchange.

Gandhi Jayanti Observed with a Message of Ahimsa and Universal Peace

Noida, India: Gandhi Jayanti was observed with deep reverence and spiritual inspiration in the august presence of Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni, renowned Jain spiritual leader and Founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti. The occasion served as a powerful reminder of the timeless ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, especially his message of Ahimsa, peace, compassion, and humanity.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT, said that observing Gandhi Jayanti in the presence of Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni Ji was a deeply enriching experience. He emphasized that Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of non-violence is not just a historical principle but a living guide for resolving conflicts and building a harmonious global society. Dr Marwah added that institutions like AAFT and Marwah Studios remain committed to spreading Gandhian values through education, art, culture, and creative leadership.

Addressing the gathering, Acharya Dr. Lokesh Muni Ji spoke about the universal relevance of Ahimsa and inner peace in the modern world. He stated that Mahatma Gandhi transformed Ahimsa into a powerful force for social change and global awakening. He further said that peace begins with individual consciousness and collective responsibility, and spiritual wisdom must guide humanity toward coexistence, tolerance, and compassion.

The observance of Gandhi Jayanti reaffirmed a shared commitment to uphold the ideals of truth, non-violence, and human dignity, inspiring all present to carry forward Mahatma Gandhi’s eternal message in thought and action.

Dr Sandeep Marwah Pays Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi in the Presence of National Leadership at Gandhi Smriti

New Delhi: It was a moment of profound honour and national pride for Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, Chancellor of AAFT, also Chair of Mahatma Gandhi Forum to be present at 30 January Marg on the solemn occasion of Gandhi Jayanti / Martyrs’ Day, paying homage to the eternal ideals of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi.

The tribute was offered in the august presence of the Hon’ble Vice-President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan, the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, former Union Minister and Vice Chairman of the Gandhi Smriti & Darshan Samiti Vijay Goel, Secretary Ministry of Culture Vivek Aggarwal and Sanjeet Kumar, Director of the Samiti.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sandeep Marwah said that standing at the sacred site of 30 January Marg, where Mahatma Gandhi spent his final moments, is a deeply humbling experience. He emphasized that Gandhiji’s principles of truth, non-violence, peace, and universal harmony remain more relevant than ever in today’s turbulent world. He added that such occasions reaffirm the collective responsibility of citizens, institutions, and creative leaders to preserve and propagate Gandhian values globally.

The solemn ceremony brought together national leaders, dignitaries, and citizens united in remembrance and reflection, paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s timeless legacy and his enduring influence on India and the world.

The presence of the country’s highest constitutional authorities underscored the continuing relevance of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy and the nation’s unwavering commitment to his ideals of moral courage, social justice, and humanity.

Magazine “Amrapali” Released in the Presence of Eminent National and International Dignitaries

New Delhi: The latest edition of the magazine “Amrapali” was formally released at a dignified समारोह attended by leading figures from administration, diplomacy, academia, and media. The occasion marked another important milestone for the publication, known for its thoughtful content and intellectual depth.

Present on the occasion were Prof. (Dr.) K G Suresh, Director of the India Habitat Centre; senior civil servant Anuja Bapat; distinguished diplomat Dr. Amarendra Khatua; and the Founder & Editor-in-Chief of Amrapali, Dr. Pranaame Bhagawati.

Congratulating the editor and her entire editorial team, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT, praised the vision, consistency, and intellectual rigor of the magazine. In his keynote address, Dr Marwah emphasized the vital role of responsible publications in shaping informed opinion, promoting cultural dialogue, and strengthening the creative and academic ecosystem of the country. He highlighted that magazines like Amrapali act as bridges between ideas, disciplines, and generations.

The dignitaries present lauded the magazine for its quality content and its contribution to literature, policy discourse, culture, and contemporary thought. The release ceremony concluded with an engaging interaction, reaffirming the importance of meaningful print and digital media in today’s fast-evolving world.

The launch of Amrapali once again underscored the power of committed editorial leadership and collaborative teamwork in creating platforms that inform, inspire, and influence society positively.

Exhibition of Paintings on Mahatma Gandhi Inaugurated at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: An inspiring Exhibition of Paintings on Mahatma Gandhi, presented by the AAFT School of Fine Arts in association with the Mahatma Gandhi Forum of Marwah Studios, was inaugurated on 30th January at Marwah Studios, marking a heartfelt tribute to the Father of the Nation on Martyrs’ Day.

The exhibition showcased a powerful collection of paintings created by the students of the AAFT School of Fine Arts. Each artwork reflected different facets of the life, philosophy, and timeless values of Mahatma Gandhi, including truth, non-violence, simplicity, and global peace. The exhibition stood as a creative expression of Gandhian ideals through the vision and sensitivity of young artists.

Addressing the students and faculty members, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT, appreciated the efforts of the students for presenting such meaningful and socially relevant artwork. He thanked them for their dedication and creativity, and motivated them to continue using art as a medium for social awareness, cultural preservation, and positive change. He emphasized that Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy remains globally relevant and that artists play a vital role in keeping these values alive for future generations.

The inauguration was attended by faculty members, students, art lovers, and guests, who admired the depth, emotion, and artistic excellence reflected in the paintings.

The exhibition added a reflective and cultural dimension to campus activities at Marwah Studios, reaffirming the commitment of AAFT and the Mahatma Gandhi Forum to promoting art, education, and the enduring legacy of Mahatma Gandhi through creative expression.

TEDxAAFT Grand Show Enthralls Audience at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: The campus of Marwah Studios came alive with ideas, creativity, and performance during the grand TEDxAAFT show, a vibrant intellectual and cultural celebration organized by the students of AAFT for the students of AAFT. The event beautifully blended music, dance, storytelling, animation, literature, and inspirational talks, creating a powerful platform for learning and expression.

The show was inaugurated by Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT, along with Dr Manoj Agarwal, Campus Director, and Seema Bedi, Director CRC, AAFT.

A major highlight of the evening was the mesmerizing Sarod & Sitar Jugalbandi by the internationally acclaimed Lakshay Mohan and Aayush Mohan, popularly known as the Mohan Brothers, who captivated the audience with their musical brilliance.

The TEDxAAFT stage also featured a series of thought-provoking talks and performances by an exceptional lineup of speakers and artistes, including historian and author Vikramjit Singh Rooprai, entrepreneur Jai Chachra, singer and spiritual performer Abhilipsa Panda, renowned Kathak danseuse Sneha Bajaj, celebrated animation filmmaker Vaibhav Kumaresh, young author Rthvik Singh, and popular Bollywood playback singer Shibani Kashyap.

In addition to the distinguished speakers, AAFT students themselves presented performances and creative expressions, making the event a truly inclusive celebration of talent, ideas, and innovation.

While inaugurating the show, Dr Sandeep Marwah said that TEDxAAFT reflects the true spirit of AAFT—where education goes beyond classrooms and encourages students to think independently, express creatively, and engage with diverse forms of knowledge. He emphasized that music, dance, dialogue, and ideas together shape responsible global citizens and future leaders of the creative industry.

The TEDxAAFT Grand Show stood out as a dynamic confluence of music, movement, ideas, and inspiration, leaving the audience enriched, motivated, and proud of the creative energy fostered at AAFT.

AAFT School of Fine Arts Presents Painting to Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi Representing the Film Industry

Noida, India: The AAFT School of Fine Arts presented a specially created painting to Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, former Union Minister, as a mark of respect and recognition for his contribution and association with the film and creative industries. The presentation took place at Marwah Studios in the presence of distinguished guests, artists, faculty members, and students on his visit to 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema.

The artwork, conceptualized and executed by the talented students of the AAFT School of Fine Arts, symbolically represented the spirit, influence, and cultural depth of the Indian film industry. The painting reflected creativity, cinematic expression, and artistic excellence, highlighting the strong connection between visual arts and cinema.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT, said that art and cinema are deeply interconnected mediums that shape society, culture, and thought. He expressed pride in the students for creating a meaningful artwork and stated that AAFT continuously encourages young artists to engage with national institutions and leaders through creative expression.

Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, while accepting the painting, appreciated the creativity and skill of the students. He applauded AAFT for nurturing artistic talent and for its significant role in strengthening India’s position in the global creative and film ecosystem. He remarked that such initiatives motivate young artists and reinforce the importance of art as a powerful voice of cultural representation.

The presentation stood as a symbolic gesture of respect from the AAFT School of Fine Arts to a distinguished national leader, reaffirming AAFT’s commitment to promoting art, cinema, and creative excellence at both national and international levels.

Painting Exhibition Paying Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi Inaugurated During 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema

Noida, India: A soulful and visually powerful Painting Exhibition was inaugurated at Marwah Studios on the occasion of the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, showcasing inspiring artworks created by the students of the AAFT School of Fine Arts in association with Mahatma Gandhi Forum.

Marking the significance of 30th January, the day observed as Martyrs’ Day, the exhibition was presented as a heartfelt tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. All the paintings displayed in the exhibition were either direct portraits of Mahatma Gandhi or thematically connected to his life, ideology, philosophy of non-violence, truth, and global human values. The artworks reflected deep sensitivity, historical understanding, and creative excellence by the young artists.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT, spoke about the vision and growing impact of the AAFT School of Fine Arts. He emphasized that art plays a vital role in preserving history, shaping values, and inspiring generations. He further added that Gandhian philosophy continues to be a powerful source of inspiration for creative minds across the world, and the students have beautifully expressed these timeless ideals through their paintings.

Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi appreciated the exhibition and applauded the students for presenting Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy with such depth and artistic maturity. He stated that art has the unique power to connect generations and cultures, and exhibitions like this help keep the spirit of Gandhi alive in contemporary society.

The grand inauguration was witnessed by a large number of distinguished guests, art lovers, faculty members, and enthusiastic art students, who admired the creativity, thoughtfulness, and emotional strength of the artworks on display.

The exhibition added a meaningful and reflective dimension to the celebrations of the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, reaffirming the commitment of Marwah Studios and AAFT to promoting art, culture, and the enduring values of peace and humanity.

Poster Launched to Invite Global Entries for the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema

Noida, India: The official poster inviting film entries from across the globe for the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema (IFCFC) was ceremoniously launched at Marwah Studios, setting the stage for yet another landmark edition of the world’s pioneering mobile film festival.

The poster was unveiled by Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Former Union Minister, in the esteemed presence of Gopal Jiwarjka, CMD of Salora International; renowned actor Abhinav Chaturvedi; senior journalist and Editor of AfroAsian Business Chronicle, Renu Malhotra; and Dr Diwakar Sukul.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, announced the formal opening of submissions for the 19th edition. He highlighted the phenomenal global response to the previous edition, which received over 8,000 entries from filmmakers across the world, reaffirming the festival’s growing international stature and relevance.

Dr Marwah emphasized that the festival continues to provide a powerful and democratic platform for filmmakers to showcase their creativity using mobile phones and new-age technologies, making cinema accessible beyond conventional boundaries. He added that IFCFC has emerged as a global movement, inspiring storytellers from diverse cultures, age groups, and backgrounds.

Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi applauded the vision behind the festival and appreciated its role in nurturing innovation and encouraging young and independent filmmakers worldwide. Other dignitaries also lauded the initiative, describing IFCFC as a trendsetter that has redefined filmmaking in the digital era.

The launch of the poster marked the beginning of global outreach for the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, inviting filmmakers from every corner of the world to be part of this unique celebration of creativity, technology, and storytelling.

Awards Ceremony of the 18th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema Held at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: The Awards Ceremony of the 18th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema was held with great enthusiasm and a packed auditorium at Marwah Studios, celebrating innovation, creativity, and the evolving language of cinema. The prestigious awards were presented by Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Former Union Minister, in the distinguished presence of eminent personalities from industry, media, cinema, and literature.

The ceremony was graced by Gopal Jiwarjka, CMD of Salora International; renowned actor Abhinav Chaturvedi; senior journalist and Editor of AfroAsian Business Chronicle, Renu Malhotra; and Dr Diwakar Sukul.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and President of Marwah Studios, informed that the festival received an overwhelming 8,000 entries from across the world. The submissions spanned multiple categories including still photography, music videos, documentaries, and fiction films, created both on mobile phones and through Artificial Intelligence. He emphasized that the International Festival of Cellphone Cinema proudly holds the distinction of being the first-ever festival of cellphone cinema in the world, and also the first international festival dedicated to films made using Artificial Intelligence.

While presenting the awards, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi congratulated all the award winners and appreciated the vision behind the festival. He applauded the initiative for opening new doors for filmmakers by embracing technology and innovation, and personally presented trophies and cash prizes to the deserving awardees.

The audience witnessed an extraordinary cinematic experience as the award-winning films were screened on the big screen in the auditorium. The house-full audience was visibly surprised and impressed by the technical quality, storytelling depth, and creative excellence achieved through mobile phones and AI-driven filmmaking.

The 18th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema once again reinforced its global reputation as a pioneering platform that democratizes cinema, encourages experimentation, and celebrates the future of filmmaking through technology-driven creativity.

19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema Grandly Inaugurated at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: The 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema was inaugurated with great enthusiasm and global spirit at Marwah Studios, marking another historic milestone in the journey of mobile filmmaking. The prestigious festival was inaugurated by Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Senior Member of the Bharatiya Janata Party and former Union Minister, in the distinguished presence of eminent personalities from the worlds of cinema, media, industry, and literature.

The august gathering included Gopal Jiwarjka, CMD of Salora International; renowned actor Abhinav Chaturvedi; senior journalist and Editor of AfroAsian Business Chronicle”], Renu Malhotra; and Dr Diwakar Sukul from London.

Addressing the audience, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and President of Marwah Studios, spoke passionately about the extraordinary journey of the International Festival of Cellphone Cinema. He shared how the movement of mobile filmmaking grew from a bold experiment into a global phenomenon, earning him the internationally acknowledged title of “Father of Cellphone Cinema.” Dr Marwah emphasized that this festival is recognized as the first-ever international festival of mobile films in the world, setting benchmarks in innovation, accessibility, and creative freedom.

While reflecting on the global evolution of cellphone cinema, Dr Marwah fondly remembered the invaluable contribution of Prof. Karl Bardosh, whose vision and academic support helped bring worldwide recognition to the genre. He further highlighted that the festival has successfully travelled to prestigious global platforms including Budapest, Hungary and Cannes, France, reinforcing its truly international stature.

This year’s edition witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 8,000 film entries from across the globe for 18th edition of IFCFC. A total of 22 awards, along with attractive cash prizes, were presented to celebrate excellence, originality, and innovation in mobile filmmaking for 18th edition participants.

Speaking on the occasion, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi praised Dr Sandeep Marwah, stating, “Dr Sandeep Marwah is a truly creative, innovative, and legendary personality in his field. Noida Film City, Marwah Studios, and AAFT have today become international brands. He is among the most decorated personalities of the country. Mobile has brought revolution in journalism, in cinema and in our day to day affaires.”

Renowned actor Abhinav Chaturvedi lauded the festival for democratizing cinema and empowering young creators with a simple yet powerful tool—the mobile phone—while appreciating Dr Marwah’s vision of nurturing new talent worldwide.

Senior journalist Renu Malhotra highlighted the global impact of the festival, noting that cellphone cinema has emerged as a strong voice for inclusive storytelling and cross-cultural dialogue.

From London, Dr Diwakar Sukul commended the festival for its originality and international outreach, describing it as a historic platform that has reshaped the future of filmmaking and inspired creators across continents.

The 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema once again reaffirmed its position as a pioneering global platform, celebrating creativity without boundaries and reinforcing India’s leadership in innovative cinematic movements.