Showing posts with label 18th Global Film Festival Noida. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 18th Global Film Festival Noida. Show all posts

Friday, December 26, 2025

“DHARAM–GARAM” Food Festival Celebrates Culinary Tastes of Legendary Superstar Dharmendra at 18th Global Film Festival Noida

“DHARAM–GARAM” Food Festival Celebrates Culinary Tastes of Legendary Superstar Dharmendra at 18th Global Film Festival Noida

Noida, India: The AAFT School of Hospitality & Tourism proudly presented “DHARAM–GARAM,” a specially curated food festival inspired by the culinary preferences of legendary superstar Dharmendra, during the 18th Global Film Festival Noida held at Marwah Studios. The unique gastronomic tribute beautifully blended cinema, culture, and cuisine, drawing enthusiastic appreciation from dignitaries, film personalities, and festival delegates.

The Dharam–Garam table was formally inaugurated by an eminent group of distinguished guests including Jaya Prada, renowned cine star and politician; Charu Shankar, acclaimed actress; Dr. Abraham Kumar, renowned music director from the USA; Mukesh Tyagi, actor and BJP spokesperson; Tarun Bajaj, celebrated casting director; Shabbir Boxwala, renowned producer; and Umesh Shukla, noted film director.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Festival President of the Global Film Festival Noida, Founder of Marwah Studios, and member of the Executive Body of the Film Federation of India (FFI), said, “‘Dharam–Garam’ is our heartfelt tribute to one of the greatest icons of Indian cinema, Dharmendra ji. Through this initiative, AAFT students have showcased how food can become a powerful medium to celebrate cinema, personalities, and culture. It is a perfect example of experiential learning and creative expression.”

Expressing her appreciation, Jaya Prada said, “It is wonderful to see such a thoughtful concept where cinema and culinary art come together. ‘Dharam–Garam’ is a warm and innovative tribute to Dharmendra ji, reflecting his simplicity, charm, and legacy. My compliments to AAFT and the students for this beautiful presentation.”

The festival featured a thoughtfully designed menu inspired by Dharmendra’s favorite flavors, prepared and presented by students of the AAFT School of Hospitality & Tourism, highlighting their professional skills, creativity, and dedication.

“DHARAM–GARAM” emerged as one of the most talked-about attractions of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida, reinforcing AAFT’s commitment to innovative education and meaningful cultural celebrations at Marwah Studios.

Monday, December 22, 2025

Distinguished Film Personalities Honoured at 9th Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman Samaroh 2025 during 18th Global Film Festival Noida

Distinguished Film Personalities Honoured at 9th Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman Samaroh 2025 during 18th Global Film Festival Noida

Noida: The 9th Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman Samaroh 2025 was held with great dignity and celebration during the 18th Global Film Festival Noida at Marwah Film City, Noida, honouring outstanding contributions to Hindi cinema and allied creative fields. The prestigious awards were presented to eminent personalities whose work has significantly enriched Indian cinema and the entertainment industry.

Renowned actor Parinita Seth was conferred with the Hindi Cinema Gaurav award in recognition of her impactful performances and consistent contribution to Hindi cinema. Popular and accomplished actor Pooja Gor was honoured with Hindi Cinema Gaurav & Most Versatile Actress in OTT & Films, acknowledging her remarkable range and successful presence across television, OTT platforms, and feature films. Celebrated film producer Krishika Lulla received the Hindi Cinema Bhushan award for her influential role in producing meaningful and successful cinema, while distinguished Film and Fashion Journalist Rhythm Datta was felicitated with Hindi Cinema Gaurav for her significant contribution to film journalism and fashion reporting.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida, said, “Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman Samaroh is a tribute to the creative excellence, dedication, and passion of individuals who have strengthened the foundations of Hindi cinema. It is our privilege to honour artists, producers, and media professionals whose work continues to inspire audiences and contribute to the global recognition of Indian cinema.”

The ceremony was attended by filmmakers, artists, media professionals, and international delegates, adding prestige and vibrancy to the celebrations. The 9th Rashtriya Hindi Cinema Samman Samaroh once again reaffirmed its stature as a respected platform celebrating excellence and achievement in Hindi cinema as part of the globally acclaimed 18th Global Film Festival Noida. Film Director and Secretary General ICMEI Ashok Tyagi paid vote of thanks.

Sunday, December 21, 2025

State-of-the-Art 2D, 3D, VFX & AI Studio Inaugurated at Marwah Studios During 18th Global Film Festival Noida

State-of-the-Art 2D, 3D, VFX & AI Studio Inaugurated at Marwah Studios During 18th Global Film Festival Noida

Noida: In a major boost to creative and technological education, a new, ultra-modern 2D, 3D, VFX & AI Studio was inaugurated at Marwah Studios during the 18th Global Film Festival Noida. The prestigious inauguration was carried out by Ranjeet, legendary Bollywood actor, and Ashwin Kumar, Oscar-nominated animator and filmmaker, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of animation and artificial intelligence education at AAFT.

The inauguration generated immense excitement among the faculty and students of AAFT School of Animation, VFX, Data Science, and AI, who enthusiastically witnessed the launch of this next-generation studio designed to meet global industry standards. Equipped with the latest tools and technologies, the studio aims to provide hands-on training in animation, visual effects, virtual production, and AI-driven content creation.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and AAFT, expressed his pride in unveiling the facility, stating that animation, VFX, and artificial intelligence are no longer optional but essential pillars of modern cinema and digital media. He emphasized that the new studio reflects AAFT’s vision to stay ahead of global trends and prepare students for the rapidly evolving creative economy.

Ashish Garg, Dean, School of Animation, highlighted that the studio will act as a creative laboratory where students can experiment, innovate, and produce world-class content using cutting-edge animation pipelines, real-time rendering, and AI-assisted workflows.

Congratulating the institution, Ashwin Kumar praised AAFT for its futuristic approach and stated that animation and AI together are redefining storytelling across films, OTT platforms, gaming, and immersive media. He encouraged students to blend strong narratives with technology to make a global impact.

The event witnessed vibrant participation from eminent personalities of the film and media industry, including Shiny Dixit (Actor), Bahaar Dhawan (Artist & Lawyer), Rhythm Dutta (Film & Fashion Journalist), Girish Thapar (Actor), Krishika Lulla (Renowned Producer), Dr. Kumar Prasant (Writer), Parinita Seth (Actor), Vatsal Seth (Actor), Mukesh Tyagi (Actor), Arun Bakshi (Singer & Actor), and Pooja Gor (Actor). Their presence added glamour, inspiration, and strong industry connect to the occasion.

The inauguration of the 2D, 3D, VFX & AI Studio stands as a landmark initiative, reaffirming AAFT and Marwah Studios’ commitment to innovation, excellence, and global leadership in creative education, while empowering the next generation of animators, technologists, and digital storytellers.

AAFT School of Hospitality & Tourism Presents Flavours of Malaysia at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025

AAFT School of Hospitality & Tourism Presents Flavours of Malaysia at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025

Noida, India: The rich and aromatic cuisines of Malaysia were elegantly showcased by the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism during the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 at the prestigious Marwah Film City, Noida. The vibrant culinary presentation was ceremoniously inaugurated by Ms. Sharifah Ezneeda Wafa, Deputy Head of the Mission, High Commission of Malaysia, adding a strong cultural dimension to the international festival.

The Malaysian food presentation reflected the country’s diverse culinary heritage, blending traditional flavors with artistic presentation. Addressing the gathering, Ms. Sharifah Ezneeda Wafa appreciated AAFT for beautifully presenting Malaysian cuisine on a global platform and stated that such initiatives promote deeper cultural understanding and people-to-people ties between India and Malaysia. She applauded the students for their professionalism and authenticity in representing Malaysia’s rich food culture.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Global Film Festival Noida, emphasized that cuisine is an integral part of cultural diplomacy. He stated that the presentation of Malaysian cuisine under the banner of the Indo–Malaysia Film and Cultural Forum reflects the growing cultural collaboration between the two nations. He further highlighted AAFT’s commitment to nurturing global exposure among students by integrating cinema, culture, and culinary arts on one international platform.

The presentation of Cuisines from Malaysia emerged as a vibrant highlight of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025, reinforcing the festival’s vision of celebrating global diversity, friendship, and cultural harmony at Marwah Film City. The event was supported by AAFT , ICMEI and IFTC.

AAFT School of Hospitality & Tourism Presents Exquisite Zimbabwean Cuisine at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025

AAFT School of Hospitality & Tourism Presents Exquisite Zimbabwean Cuisine at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025

Noida, India: The rich and diverse flavors of Zimbabwe were beautifully showcased during the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 with a special Presentation of Cuisines from Zimbabwe, organized by the AAFT School of Hospitality & Tourism at the prestigious Marwah Film City, Noida. The culinary presentation was ceremoniously inaugurated by Ms. Sophia Chimba, Tourism Attaché, Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe, along with Mr. Dambudzo Victor Miga, Cultural Attaché, Embassy of Zimbabwe, in the presence of international dignitaries, filmmakers, and festival guests.

The thoughtfully curated menu reflected Zimbabwe’s vibrant culinary heritage and was widely appreciated for its authenticity, presentation, and taste. Addressing the gathering, Ms. Sophia Chimba expressed her delight at witnessing Zimbabwean cuisine being presented on such a prominent global platform. She appreciated the efforts of AAFT students for capturing the essence of Zimbabwe’s food culture and noted that cuisine plays a vital role in promoting tourism and cultural understanding.

Mr. Dambudzo Victor Miga highlighted the importance of cultural exchange through gastronomy, stating that initiatives like these strengthen people-to-people connections between Zimbabwe and India. He commended AAFT and the Global Film Festival Noida for creating opportunities where culture, cinema, and cuisine come together to build lasting international friendships.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Global Film Festival Noida, emphasized that food is a powerful medium of cultural diplomacy. He stated that the presentation of Zimbabwean cuisine reflects AAFT’s commitment to global education and cultural integration, allowing students to learn, innovate, and represent world cultures with professionalism and respect.

The presentation of Cuisines from Zimbabwe emerged as a vibrant and flavorful highlight of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025, celebrating global harmony, cultural diversity, and international collaboration at Marwah Film City.

Zimbabwean Film “RISE” Receives Warm Acclaim at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025

Zimbabwean Film “RISE” Receives Warm Acclaim at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025

Noida, India: The 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025, hosted at the iconic Marwah Film City, Noida, witnessed a powerful cinematic moment with the special screening of the Zimbabwean film “RISE”, directed by Jessica J. Rowlands. The screening was ceremoniously inaugurated by Ms. Sophia Chimba, Tourism Attaché, Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe, along with Mr. Dambudzo Victor Miga, Cultural Attaché, Embassy of Zimbabwe, highlighting the growing cultural and cinematic ties between India and Zimbabwe.

The film RISE, appreciated for its compelling narrative and strong social message, deeply resonated with the international audience present at the festival. Recognizing its artistic merit and impactful storytelling, the film was honoured with the Award of Distinction, which was presented by Dr. Sushil Bharti, Director Broadcasting, Marwah Studios, in the presence of esteemed dignitaries, filmmakers, and media representatives.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Global Film Festival Noida, emphasized the importance of showcasing diverse voices from across the globe. He stated that films like RISE reflect the strength of world cinema and reinforce the festival’s mission of promoting cultural dialogue, creative exchange, and international understanding through meaningful storytelling.

The screening of RISE stood out as a proud moment at the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025, further strengthening global cinematic collaboration and celebrating the rich creative spirit of Zimbabwean cinema on an international platform.

AAFT School of Fine Arts Presents Spectacular Cinema-Themed Painting Exhibition at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025

AAFT School of Fine Arts Presents Spectacular Cinema-Themed Painting Exhibition at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025

Noida, India: A captivating and visually stunning exhibition of paintings inspired by cinema was presented by forty talented artists from the AAFT School of Fine Arts during the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 at the prestigious Marwah Studios, Film City Noida. The exhibition emerged as a major artistic highlight of the festival, seamlessly blending the worlds of fine art and cinema in a world-class creative environment.

Curated and executed entirely by AAFT students, the exhibition showcased an impressive range of cinematic interpretations—from iconic film moments and legendary personalities to abstract expressions capturing the emotion, rhythm, and storytelling power of cinema. Visitors from across the film, media, cultural, and diplomatic communities praised the extraordinary dedication, originality, and craftsmanship reflected in each artwork. The exhibition received overwhelming appreciation for the students’ journey from conceptual ideas to flawless execution, demonstrating exceptional artistic maturity and professional discipline.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Global Film Festival Noida, expressed immense pride in the young artists. He stated that the exhibition reflects AAFT’s commitment to nurturing creativity and excellence across all art forms. “These paintings are not just visual creations; they are powerful narratives inspired by cinema. The passion, hard work, and imagination of our students have transformed this space into a celebration of art, culture, and cinematic expression,” he said.

The exhibition stood as a testament to the creative brilliance of AAFT students and reinforced the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 as a truly multidisciplinary global platform celebrating cinema, art, and innovation.

18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 Pays Glorious Tribute to Legendary Superstar Dharmendra

18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 Pays Glorious Tribute to Legendary Superstar Dharmendra

Noida, India: The 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025, held at the iconic Marwah Studios, Film City Noida, paid a heartfelt and majestic tribute to Superstar Dharmendra, one of the most legendary and beloved actors in the history of the Indian film industry. The special homage celebrated Dharamji’s extraordinary journey and his timeless contribution to Indian cinema and Bollywood, acknowledging a legacy that continues to inspire generations of filmmakers, actors, and audiences worldwide.

Renowned dignitaries, filmmakers, artists, media personalities, and international guests from the media and entertainment industry who visited the festival joined together to pay their deep respect to the legendary actor. The tribute recalled some of Dharmendra’s most iconic and unforgettable films that shaped the golden era of Indian cinema and established him as the “He-Man” of Bollywood—an actor admired equally for his powerful performances, emotional depth, and enduring charm.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Global Film Festival Noida, said that Dharmendra is not just a superstar but a living institution of Indian cinema. “His contribution to Bollywood is unparalleled. Through decades of remarkable performances, he has defined excellence, sincerity, and mass appeal. Dharamji’s work reflects the soul of Indian cinema and continues to influence artists across generations,” he stated.

The tribute stood as a moment of collective gratitude and admiration, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to honouring cinematic legends who have shaped the cultural and artistic identity of India. The homage to Dharmendra emerged as one of the most powerful and emotionally resonant highlights of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025. A set representing Dharamji’s Movies was erected by the students of AAFT School of Interior Design.

Thursday, December 18, 2025

Thought-Provoking Seminar on “Is the Film Industry Receptive to Outside Talent?” Held at 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.

Russian Cinema Takes Center Stage at 18th Global Film Festival Noida

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.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

CINEKIND Award Unveiled with Global Diplomatic Presence at the Inaugural Ceremony of 18th Global Film Festival Noida

CINEKIND Award Unveiled with Global Diplomatic Presence at the Inaugural Ceremony of 18th Global Film Festival Noida

Noida, India: A defining moment of international collaboration and cinematic purpose marked the grand opening of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida at Marwah Film City, as the poster of the newly instituted CINEKIND Award was ceremoniously unveiled on the inaugural stage. The launch, graced by an esteemed gathering of Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and senior diplomats from across the world, emerged as one of the most powerful highlights of the opening ceremony, reinforcing the festival’s global stature and commitment to meaningful cinema.

The poster was unveiled in the distinguished presence of H.E. Juris Bone, Ambassador of Latvia; H.E. Alberto Antonio Guani, Ambassador of Uruguay; H.E. Karlito Nunes, Ambassador of Timor Leste; Cdr. K. L. Ganju, Hon. Consul General of the 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, Secretary, Embassy of Panama; Ms. Ediza Marlene Jimenez Moreno, Embassy of Panama; and Mr. Ibrahim Besthawi, Counsellor, Embassy of the State of Palestine, among other eminent dignitaries.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of the Global Film Festival Noida and President of Marwah Studios, stated that the CINEKIND Award has been conceived to honour cinema that promotes humanity, compassion, social responsibility, and global harmony. “CINEKIND is not just an award; it is a movement to recognize filmmakers and storytellers who use the power of cinema to inspire positive change and empathy across borders,” he said. Dr Marwah thanked two organizations- Film Federation of India and Peoples of the Animal for initiating the formation of this award.

Smt. Maneka Sanjay Gandhi, noted environmentalist and humanitarian, lauded the initiative and emphasized the transformative influence of cinema in shaping social consciousness. She appreciated the vision behind CINEKIND, calling it a timely and meaningful step towards encouraging films that uphold values of kindness, sustainability, and human dignity.

The unveiling of the CINEKIND Award set a profound and inspiring tone for the 18th Global Film Festival Noida, reaffirming its position as a globally respected platform that seamlessly blends art, diplomacy, and social impact through the universal language of cinema.

Timor-Leste Cuisine Highlighted at International Food Festival during GFFN 2025

Timor-Leste Cuisine Highlighted at International Food Festival during GFFN 2025

Noida, India: The distinctive and flavorful cuisine of Timor-Leste was elegantly showcased at the International Food Festival held during the 18th Global Film Festival Noida (GFFN) 2025 at Marwah Film City, Noida. The culinary presentation was designed and executed by the students of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism, reflecting both authenticity and youthful creativity.

The Timor-Leste cuisine pavilion was formally inaugurated by H.E. Karlito Nunes, Ambassador of Timor-Leste to India, in the presence of filmmakers, diplomats, academicians, students, and international delegates attending the festival.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, President of GFFN, and Chancellor of AAFT University of Media and Arts, said that food is a powerful medium of cultural expression and plays a vital role in strengthening international friendship. He added that the International Food Festival at GFFN has become an important platform for showcasing the culinary heritage of different nations while providing hands-on global exposure to AAFT students. Dr. Marwah appreciated the dedication and professionalism of the hospitality students in presenting the culture of Timor-Leste with great sensitivity and respect.

Addressing the gathering, H.E. Karlito Nunes expressed his happiness and pride in seeing the cuisine of Timor-Leste presented at such a prestigious international event. He praised AAFT and the Global Film Festival Noida for promoting cultural diplomacy through innovative platforms like the International Food Festival and stated that such initiatives help bring nations closer by celebrating their traditions and shared values.

The International Food Festival at GFFN 2025 continues to be a vibrant celebration of global unity, where cinema, culture, education, and cuisine come together, further enhancing the international stature of the Global Film Festival Noida.

18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 Opens with Latvian Film “Soviet Milk,” Celebrating Global Cinema and Cultural Diplomacy

18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025 Opens with Latvian Film “Soviet Milk,” Celebrating Global Cinema and Cultural Diplomacy

Noida, India: The 18th Global Film Festival Noida (GFFN) 2025 commenced on a powerful and inspiring note at the iconic Marwah Film City, Noida, with the screening of the acclaimed Latvian feature film “Soviet Milk,” directed by renowned filmmaker Inara Colman. The opening film set the tone for a truly international celebration of cinema, culture, and creative dialogue.

The festival was formally inaugurated by H.E. Juris Bone, Ambassador of Latvia to India, along with Firdausul Hassan, President of the Film Federation of India (FFI), in the distinguished presence of Ms. Inga Skruzmane, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Latvia. Their participation highlighted the growing cultural cooperation and strong diplomatic ties between India and Latvia through the medium of cinema.

Announcing the first film of the festival, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, President of the Festival, and Chancellor of AAFT University of Media and Arts, elaborated on the vision and expansive scale of GFFN 2025. He spoke about the festival’s academic strength, global reach, and its role as a vibrant platform for filmmakers, students, artists, and thinkers from across the world. Dr. Marwah emphasized that the festival stands as a symbol of unity, knowledge-sharing, and creative excellence, proudly recognized as the biggest academic film festival in the world.

Addressing the audience, H.E. Juris Bone shared insightful remarks on the film “Soviet Milk,” its historical and emotional depth, and its relevance in portraying human resilience and social realities. He also underlined the importance of cultural exchange through cinema and spoke warmly about the strengthening relations between India and Latvia, expressing appreciation for India’s growing engagement with world cinema.

The opening ceremony of GFFN 2025 reflected the festival’s commitment to global storytelling, cultural harmony, and meaningful international collaboration, marking a grand beginning to days filled with films, discussions, workshops, and celebrations of cinematic art from across the globe.