ICMEI and Dr. Sandeep Marwah Extend Heartfelt Congratulations to the United States of America on Independence Day

ICMEI and Dr. Sandeep Marwah Extend Heartfelt Congratulations to the United States of America on Independence Day

New Delhi, 4th July 2025: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), along with the Indo American Film and Cultural Forum, proudly extends its warmest congratulations to Mr. Jorgan K. Andrews, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of the United States of America in India, and to the people of the United States on the joyous occasion of American Independence Day.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Chair of the Indo American Film and Cultural Forum, conveyed his sincere greetings, stating:
“4th of July stands as a powerful reminder of the American ideals of freedom, innovation, and opportunity. On behalf of the Indian media and cultural community, we salute the enduring spirit of the American people and celebrate the strong and dynamic partnership between India and the United States.”

The Indo American Film and Cultural Forum has been one of the most active international arms of ICMEI, consistently championing cultural diplomacy, artistic collaboration, and knowledge exchange between the two nations. Marwah Studios has hosted numerous workshops, masterclasses, and seminars featuring some of the most prominent American personalities from the fields of cinema, journalism, performing arts, and academia.

“Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of deepening Indo-US ties through creative education, talent exchange, and cultural initiatives. Our vision is to build stronger bridges between our nations through the universal language of art and storytelling,” said Dr. Marwah.

In recognition of his tireless efforts to strengthen the cultural and artistic relationship between India and the United States, Dr. Sandeep Marwah has recently been honored by both the New York State Assembly and the California State Assembly for his outstanding contributions. Additionally, he is a proud recipient of a prestigious award from the Tisch School of the Arts, New York University — a global leader in creative education.

“These honors reaffirm the power of cultural diplomacy in shaping global harmony. I am humbled by these recognitions and remain committed to furthering the Indo-American relationship through continuous innovation and creative collaboration,” Dr. Marwah added.

The Indo American Film and Cultural Forum remains a flagship initiative of ICMEI, driving impactful projects and serving as a living bridge between the artistic communities of both countries.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah Inducted as a Member of Rotary E-Club of Winter Haven

Dr. Sandeep Marwah Inducted as a Member of Rotary E-Club of Winter Haven

New Delhi, India – Renowned media personality Dr. Sandeep Marwah has been inducted as a Member of Rotary International under the E-Club of Winter Haven 6860. The prestigious induction ceremony took place at Hotel Le Meridien, where Dr. Marwah was honored by AG Clarice Roth of Bartow Rotary Club RID 6890, along with Rtn Dori Huntoon of Bartow Rotary Club RID 6890 (USA) and Rtn Anil Ghai of Rotary Club Kashipur Corbett.

The event witnessed the presence of esteemed members of the US Rotary delegation, including PDG Deborah Williams (Rotary E-Club Tampa South RID 6890), PDG Mark Scolnick, and AKS Irma of Lakeland Rotary Club RID 6890.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Sandeep Marwah stated, “I am truly honored to be a part of the Rotary International community, which is dedicated to service and humanitarian efforts worldwide. I look forward to contributing towards meaningful initiatives that create a lasting impact.”

The ceremony highlighted Rotary International’s commitment to fostering global collaboration and community service. Dr. Marwah’s inclusion in the esteemed organization further reinforces his dedication to social development and international goodwill.

Trupti Bhoir and Ruhi Hak Join the International Women’s Film Forum at Marwah Studios

Trupti Bhoir and Ruhi Hak Join the International Women’s Film Forum at Marwah Studios

Noida: Renowned Marathi actress Trupti Bhoir and Ruhi Hak, founder of the Hopeblit Foundation USA, have officially joined the International Women’s Film Forum (IWFF) under the aegis of Marwah Studios. Their association marks a significant milestone in the forum’s efforts to empower women in the fields of art, culture, and cinema.

During the event, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chair of the Indo-US Film and Cultural Forum, highlighted the growing cultural synergy between India and the United States. “India and the US have achieved remarkable heights in promoting art, culture, and cinema. These two democracies are exemplary in fostering cross-cultural collaborations,” he stated.

Dr. Marwah further expressed his pride in the global reach of Marwah Studios’ mission. “Our 33-year-old mantra of ‘Love, Peace, and Unity through Art and Culture’ continues to expand its wings across the globe,” he said, emphasizing the power of creative industries in uniting people.

The induction of Trupti Bhoir and Ruhi Hak into the IWFF underscores the forum’s commitment to celebrating and supporting women’s contributions to global art and culture, strengthening international ties in the process.

Sandeep Marwah Honored by California State Assembly for Contributions to HOPEBLIT Project

Sandeep Marwah Honored by California State Assembly for Contributions to HOPEBLIT Project

Noida, India – Dr. Sandeep Marwah, founder of Noida Film City, President of Marwah Studios, and Chancellor of AAFT University, has been honored by the California State Assembly, USA, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the HOPEBLIT Project (“Be The Light”). The prestigious Certificate of Honor, signed by Assembly Member Jesse Gabriel of the 46th Assembly District, was presented to Dr. Marwah on Saturday, September 21st, 2024. The certificate was personally delivered to India by Ruhi (Rohini Hak), envoy and co-initiator of the project.

This prestigious recognition highlights Dr. Marwah’s “countless hours of dedicated service” to the HOPEBLIT initiative, a global project under the Global Women’s Empowerment Network, designed to bring sustainable energy solutions to underserved rural areas. The project not only aims to improve access to energy but also symbolizes progress, equality, and empowerment for marginalized communities.

Assembly Member Jesse Gabriel, in his congratulatory message, stated, “I thank you for empowering youth via education. On behalf of the California State Legislature and the 46th District, we wish you the best of luck in all of your future endeavors.” The honor recognizes Dr. Marwah’s extensive mentorship and leadership in the global arena, particularly in his role as an ambassador and advisor for the Be The Light project, where he continues to make a significant impact.

Ruhi (Rohini Hak), the visionary behind the HOPEBLIT Project, expressed her deep gratitude for Dr. Marwah’s involvement, stating, “Dr. Sandeep Marwah’s mentorship and contributions to HOPEBLIT are truly inspiring. As an ambassador and advisor, he is helping to bring sustainable energy to underserved rural areas, symbolizing progress and equality. We are grateful for his leadership in our community!”

In his response, Dr. Sandeep Marwah extended his heartfelt thanks to Ruhi Hak and Assembly Member Jesse Gabriel for the honor. “It is an immense privilege to be part of the HOPEBLIT Project. I believe that through education and sustainable energy solutions, we can empower communities and create a better future for the next generation. I am deeply grateful for this recognition from the California State Assembly.”

Dr. Marwah, an internationally renowned media personality, has been at the forefront of several global initiatives, advocating for education, empowerment, and cultural exchange. His recognition by the California State Assembly is another testament to his unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in society.

Jasjit Singh, Executive Director of SelectUSA, Leads Prestigious Round Table Conference on U.S. Investment Opportunities

Jasjit Singh, Executive Director of SelectUSA, Leads Prestigious Round Table Conference on U.S. Investment Opportunities

New Delhi, India: In a significant gathering aimed at fostering international business relations and promoting investment in the United States, Jasjit Singh, Executive Director of SelectUSA, U.S. Department of Commerce, served as the chief guest at a Round Table Conference organized by the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC). Held at the Hotel Leela Palace, the event saw the participation of a large number of IACC members, renowned entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders from various industries.

The conference focused on discussing strategies to enhance foreign direct investment (FDI) into the United States, with special emphasis on creating new avenues for collaboration between Indian entrepreneurs and the American business ecosystem.

SelectUSA, an initiative of the U.S. Government, plays a crucial role in attracting foreign direct investment to the United States, fostering economic growth, and enhancing American competitiveness. Jasjit Singh, in his keynote address, highlighted the importance of these efforts, saying, “SelectUSA leads the U.S. Government’s mission to attract FDI, which is essential for creating jobs, spurring economic growth, and ensuring that America remains globally competitive.”

The round table provided an open platform for IACC members and entrepreneurs to engage in insightful discussions on the various opportunities for investing in the U.S. The dialogue centered around the ease of doing business, regulatory frameworks, and support mechanisms that make the U.S. an attractive destination for investors.

Immediate National Past President of IACC, Dr. Lalit Bhasin, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the critical role that bilateral trade relations play in advancing economic prosperity for both countries. He highlighted the immense potential for Indian businesses to explore growth opportunities in the U.S. market.

Arun Karna, President of the North Chapter of IACC, reiterated the importance of this ongoing dialogue between Indian businesses and U.S. agencies like SelectUSA. “We are confident that this engagement will open up new channels for investment and collaboration, which will ultimately benefit both nations,” said Karnra.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Media and Entertainment Committee Chair of IACC and President of Marwah Studios, also Chair for Indo American Film and Cultural Forum, added valuable insights into the conversation, particularly from the perspective of the media and entertainment industries. “The media and entertainment sector has enormous potential for cross-border investment and collaboration,” said Dr. Marwah. “We must explore how these creative industries can contribute to strengthening business ties between the U.S. and India.”

The event concluded with a collaborative vision for future partnerships, as participants underscored the significance of nurturing long-term relationships between U.S. and Indian businesses.

Swapnil Rai Presents “Networked Bollywood” to Sandeep Marwah at Marwah Studios

Swapnil Rai Presents “Networked Bollywood” to Sandeep Marwah at Marwah Studios

Noida, 21st August 2024 – Dr. Swapnil Rai, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Film, Television, and Media at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA, presented her newly published book “Networked Bollywood: How Star Power Globalized Hindi Cinema” to Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Chancellor of AAFT University, in a special ceremony at Marwah Studios, Noida. The event was marked by a warm exchange of ideas and mutual admiration between the author and the celebrated media and film educationist.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah expressed his profound appreciation for Dr. Rai’s rigorous research and dedication to the project. “I am happy to be part of this journey. I remember how Swapnil spent hours and hours collecting information connected to Bollywood, and I did not hesitate to share information for this great research, which has now been beautifully converted into a book. I congratulate Swapnil on this remarkable achievement and wish her great success,” said Dr. Marwah while accepting a copy of the book from Dr. Rai.

During her address, Dr. Swapnil Rai shared her deep passion and insights into the complex connections between Bollywood stars and the global entertainment industry. Her interdisciplinary scholarship, which meticulously examines the pivotal role of stars in Bollywood’s globalization through extensive research and cultural analysis, has been widely praised for its depth and accessibility.

“Networked Bollywood” provides a comprehensive exploration of the various phases of Hindi cinema’s history, highlighting the key transformations influenced by significant historical events such as colonialism, independence, the Cold War, and the liberalization of the Indian economy. Dr. Rai argues that Bollywood’s global reach is not a recent phenomenon but rather a historical continuum, with its globalization origins tracing back through several decades of Hindi cinema.

The event underscored the significance of academic contributions to the understanding of global cinema and the role of Bollywood in shaping cultural narratives worldwide. Dr. Rai’s work is set to become an essential resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the evolution of Hindi cinema and its international impact.

The occasion was a testament to the collaborative spirit between academia and the film industry, fostering a deeper appreciation of the cultural and historical forces that continue to shape the global entertainment landscape. The event was supported by Indo American Film and Cultural Forum.

Chancellor of AAFT University Explores Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Chancellor of AAFT University Explores Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA – Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University of Media and Arts, recently visited Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to gain a firsthand experience of one of the most historically significant cities in the United States. “It was necessary to visit another major city to understand the diverse cultural and industrial landscape of the USA, the most well-developed nation in the world,” Dr. Marwah also Chair for Indo American Film and Cultural Forum stated during a press briefing.

Philadelphia, colloquially known as Philly, is the most populous city in Pennsylvania and the sixth-most populous city in the United States, with a population of 1,603,797 according to the 2020 census. The city has played a pivotal role in American history, serving as the nation’s capital until 1800. Today, Philadelphia continues to exert significant influence in business, industry, culture, sports, and music.

The city is renowned for its contributions to education and research, housing 18 four-year universities and colleges, making it one of the nation’s leading centers for higher education. Philadelphia boasts numerous historic firsts, including the nation’s first library (1731), hospital (1751), medical school (1765), national capital (1774), university (by some accounts) (1779), central bank (1781), stock exchange (1790), zoo (1874), and business school (1881). The city is also home to 67 National Historic Landmarks, including the iconic Independence Hall.

Dr. Marwah’s visit underscores AAFT University’s commitment to expanding its global perspective and fostering academic excellence. “Philadelphia’s rich history and contemporary relevance in various fields make it a critical point of study for our institution,” said Dr. Marwah. “Understanding the historical context and modern advancements of such cities helps us to better prepare our students for their future careers.”

The visit to Philadelphia, following his engagements in New York, highlights Dr. Marwah’s dedication to exploring the diverse educational and cultural landscapes across the United States, ensuring that AAFT University remains at the forefront of global education and research.

AAFT Hosts Influential Workshop on AI and Blockchain with Expert Aradhya Malhotra from USA

AAFT Hosts Influential Workshop on AI and Blockchain with Expert Aradhya Malhotra from USA

Noida — In a riveting session that illuminated the intersections of Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain, the AAFT School of Animation and Data Science was thrilled to host a masterclass with Aradhya Malhotra, an esteemed expert hailing from the United States. This event, organized under the auspices of the Indo American Film and Cultural Forum of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry, drew an enthusiastic group of students, eager to dive into the complexities of these cutting-edge technologies.

Aradhya Malhotra, armed with a decade of experience in the tech arena, engaged the audience with his deep dives into AI and Blockchain’s potential and pitfalls, including a thoughtful examination of technologies like Chat GPT. His engaging teaching style and the hands-on approach demystified many complex concepts, sparking lively discussions and providing attendees with a clearer understanding of real-world applications.

The highlight of the event was the awarding of a Life Membership to the International Film and Television Club of AAFT to Malhotra, a gesture that underscored his invaluable contributions to the global film and television landscape. This honor was presented by Sandeep Marwah, president of the forum, marking a significant recognition of Malhotra’s ongoing commitment to merging technology with education and creativity.

Sandeep Marwah Acknowledged and Honored with Life Time Achievement Award by Chicago Open University USA

Sandeep Marwah Acknowledged and Honored with Life Time Achievement Award by Chicago Open University USA

Chicago, USA:  Renowned figure in the world of creative arts, Sandeep Marwah, was recognized for his remarkable contributions spanning over 48 years by the esteemed Chicago Open University, USA. The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Mr. Marwah by Dr. Ravi Gupta, representing Chicago Open University, and Bhavna Gupta, Special Envoy from Dubai, in a ceremony filled with accolades and admiration.

Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, reflected on his journey in the creative realm, beginning from his early days after graduating from Sardar Patel Vidyalaya, New Delhi, in 1975. His passion for the arts led him through professional theatre, television, and eventually into the world of cinema, where he left an indelible mark. Undeterred by challenges, he remained steadfast in his dedication to arts and culture, even throughout his academic pursuits at Bhagat Singh College and other institutions.

In 1986,  Marwah envisioned and designed the iconic Noida Film City, laying the foundation for a hub of cinematic excellence. This endeavour was followed by the establishment of Marwah Studios in 1991, a testament to his vision and commitment to the film industry. Furthermore, his foray into creative education in 1993 paved the way for the establishment of AAFT and numerous organizations dedicated to various facets of the creative arts.

With over a thousand accolades to his name, Marwah’s impact transcends borders, as he tirelessly represents India’s creative industry on the global stage and vice versa. His unparalleled achievements have been recognized in esteemed institutions worldwide, including seven honors in the British Parliament, seven times in Hungary, honoured in Wales Parliament, Munich Parliament, as well as acknowledgments from dignitaries such as the Presidents of USA, Cyprus, , Mongolia, Trinidad & Tobago, Afghanistan, Luxembourg,  India  and Prime Minister of Nepal . Notably, he has been appreciated by the President of Croatia, Gambia, Nigeria, among numerous other international figures, and has been studied as a case study in 27 countries.

The ceremony was attended by the esteemed management of Marwah Studios, along with notable social worker Rakesh Agarwal, underscoring the significance of Marwah’s contributions to society.

Sandeep Marwah’s Lifetime Achievement Award from Chicago Open University serves as a testament to his enduring legacy and unwavering dedication to the world of creative arts, inspiring generations to come.

ICMEI Sports Committee Takes a Pledge to Champion Combat Sports

Sports Committee of ICMEI Will Promote Combat Sports in India

Noida: Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) and a World Record Holder in Sports, announced a significant initiative at the global headquarters of ICMEI, expressing the organization’s commitment to extensively promote combat sports. Having been actively involved in wrestling and boxing for several years, ICMEI is set to amplify its support for combat sports through various programs and initiatives.

Combat sports, encompassing disciplines such as boxing, amateur wrestling, mixed martial arts, and fencing, represent a unique blend of skill, strength, and strategy. These sports involve techniques classified into three domains: striking, grappling, and weapon usage.

Chetan Bhatia, a former student of AAFT (Asian Academy of Film and Television), introduced Partho Ghosh during the event. Ghosh, an international striking coach in mixed martial arts, has trained notable players such as Rana Rudra Pratap, Amitesh Chaubey, and Anubhav Verma.

Adding to the vigor of the Sports Committee of ICMEI, the committee welcomed Andrew Cook, an American wrestling expert and coach to numerous Olympic medalists and world champions. Dr. Sandeep Marwah, recognizing their invaluable contributions to sports, nominated both Partho Ghosh and Andrew Cook as advisors to the committee.

In a gesture of appreciation and recognition, Sandeep Marwah conferred life membership of the International Film and Television Research Centre upon both dignitaries.

The event received substantial support from the Indo American Film and Cultural Forum and AAFT (Asian Academy of Film and Television), underscoring the collaborative efforts to boost combat sports on a global scale.

This initiative by ICMEI underscores the organization’s commitment to fostering diverse sports and providing a platform for athletes and coaches to excel in the realm of combat sports.

Ravi Karkara USA Joins World Peace Development and Research Foundation

World Peace Development and Research Foundation Invited Ravi Karkara

Noida: Sandeep Marwah, the Chairperson of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry and WPDRF recently spoke to members of the Confederation of World Religion about the importance of sustainability and climate action.

During the interaction, Marwah highlighted the role of religions in promoting sustainability and protecting the environment. He emphasized the need for a collective effort to address the global challenges of climate change, pollution, and natural resource depletion.

Sandeep Marwah invited Ravi Karkara of USA, a former advisor to United Nations, on the board of World Peace Development and Research Foundation. Marwah as Patron to Confederation of World Religion,  also presented him with the responsibility as Chief Global Convener of Confederation of World Religion.

Ravi Karkara has over two decades of experience working on Sustainability and Climate Action. He has worked globally on sustainability initiatives in Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Asia. He is the Co-Founder of global initiatives like the Global Un-Plastic Day, Global Solar Day, and Global Green Hydrogen Day. He co-founded the Youth for Green Hydrogen global initiatives in transiting societies to renewable energy sources. He mentors many award-winning Sustainability initiatives, CEOs, CXOs, Investors, and start-ups worldwide.

Later Ravi Karkara honoured Sandeep Marwah with “Investors Forum India Meet New York”  memento as a gesture of goodwill. Acharya Satyendra Narayan President Confederation of World Religion, Zena Chung Social Worker from South Korea were also present there. The event was supported by Indo American Film and Cultural Forum.