Formal Inauguration of AAFT School of Fine Arts at 14th Global Festival of Journalism & AVGC Noida 2026

Formal Inauguration of AAFT School of Fine Arts at 14th Global Festival of Journalism & AVGC Noida 2026

Noida: The formal inauguration of the AAFT School of Fine Arts, one of the most dynamic and creative departments of Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT), was conducted with great enthusiasm at Marwah Studios, Film City Noida, during the 14th Global Festival of Journalism & AVGC Noida 2026.

The School was inaugurated by Meenakshi Lekhi, Former Minister of State for External Affairs and Minister of State for Culture, Government of India, in the presence of distinguished dignitaries including Dr. Neeraj A. Sharma, Hon. Consul General of the Palau.

A massive display of paintings and artworks created by the students of AAFT was showcased on the occasion, reflecting exceptional creativity, technical excellence, and diverse artistic expression. The exhibition was widely appreciated by the guests and attendees.

Addressing the gathering, Meenakshi Lekhi lauded AAFT for continuously promoting art, culture, and creative education. She emphasized the importance of fine arts in preserving cultural heritage and strengthening the soft power of the nation. She appreciated the vibrant display of student works and encouraged young artists to use their talent as a medium of social change and national pride.

Dr. Neeraj A. Sharma expressed his admiration for the scale and quality of artistic expression presented at the exhibition. He highlighted that art serves as a universal language connecting nations and fostering mutual respect and understanding across cultures.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT and Festival President, stated that the School of Fine Arts has been established with the vision to nurture creative minds and provide them with global exposure. He remarked that the overwhelming display of paintings by students demonstrates the institution’s commitment to excellence in arts education. He further added that platforms like the Global Festival of Journalism & AVGC create meaningful opportunities for young artists to present their work before an international audience.

The inauguration marked another significant milestone in AAFT’s journey of promoting creative education and cultural diplomacy through art and media.

APPU & ICMEI Present International Conference on Sustainable Development of Asia-Pacific

APPU & ICMEI Present International Conference on Sustainable Development of Asia-Pacific

New Delhi: The Asian Pacific Postal Union (APPU) in association with the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) successfully presented an International Conference on Sustainable Development of Asia-Pacific, with a special focus on Unity through Media, Art & Culture, Climate Change, and Health.

The conference was graced by former State Minister of External Affairs Government of India Hon’ble Meenakshi Lekhi as the Chief Guest, who emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, policy innovation, and cultural diplomacy in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and public health. She underlined that sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region requires collaboration that transcends borders and sectors.

The program was conducted by Subhash Goyal, while J. S. Saluja delivered the President’s remarks, highlighting the growing relevance of multilateral dialogue and people-to-people engagement in shaping a peaceful and progressive Asia-Pacific.

Prominent speakers included H.E. Mahishini Colonne High Commissioner of. Sri Lanka, Rita Singh, Ambassador K. P. Fabian, and Ambassador Dr. M. Saiful Hoque, Dr Y.P. Chawla, Dr S.N. Mishra, Dr A.K. Gupta, Dr B. Sivaramappa, Dr K.K.Sharma, who shared their valuable insights on diplomacy, environmental responsibility, and the role of communication in fostering regional unity. The speakers collectively stressed the need for strategic cooperation to ensure sustainable growth while preserving cultural identity and ecological balance.

Global Art and Culture Laureate Dr. Sandeep Marwah addressed the gathering with a powerful message on love, peace, and unity through art and culture. He spoke about the consistent efforts of ICMEI and Marwah Studios over the last 34 years in bringing nations together through cultural exchange programs, international festivals, educational initiatives, and media collaborations.

Dr. Marwah highlighted that the word “Asian” carries a deep emotional and strategic significance, symbolizing collective identity, shared heritage, and regional solidarity. He proudly noted that many initiatives under his leadership carry the name “Asian,” reflecting a lifelong commitment to strengthening bonds among countries of the continent through creative and cultural diplomacy.

The conference concluded with a renewed commitment to sustainable development goals, regional unity, and the use of media, art, and culture as powerful tools to promote harmony and cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region.

Remembering Padma Shri Dr. Shyam Singh Shashi at Memorial Lecture 2026

Remembering Padma Shri Dr. Shyam Singh Shashi at Memorial Lecture 2026

New Delhi: The Memorial Lecture 2026 in remembrance of Padma Shri Dr. Shyam Singh Shashi was held with great reverence and intellectual fervor at the Civil Services Officers’ Institute. The event was organized by the Padma Shri Shyam Singh Shashi Foundation and Research Centre under the leadership of Sanskriti Singh.

The distinguished gathering was presided over by Shyam Singh Parande, Secretary General of ARSP. The evening brought together eminent personalities from literature, governance, art and culture, including former government servants, senior bureaucrats, writers, journalists, and members of Dr. Shashi’s family.

Renowned Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi delivered a deeply moving address, emphasizing Dr. Shashi’s extraordinary contribution to literature, social research, and the preservation of cultural heritage. He highlighted how Dr. Shashi’s lifelong dedication to marginalized communities and indigenous cultures continues to inspire generations to work towards social justice, human dignity, and inclusive development.

Dr. Yogendra Narain, Chancellor of Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, spoke about Dr. Shashi’s scholarly brilliance and his role as a cultural ambassador of India. He underlined the importance of research-driven literature and intellectual discourse in strengthening national identity and global understanding. Dr. Narain noted that Dr. Shashi’s work remains a guiding light for academicians and policy makers alike.

Global Art and Culture Laureate Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University, paid rich tribute to the legendary writer, describing him as a visionary thinker whose writings bridged tradition and modernity. Dr. Marwah stressed the need to carry forward Dr. Shashi’s mission of promoting art, culture, and human values through education, media, and creative platforms. He remarked that memorial lectures of this nature are essential to keep the intellectual legacy alive and relevant for future generations.

The solemn yet inspiring event reaffirmed the enduring legacy of Padma Shri Dr. Shyam Singh Shashi as a literary giant, social thinker, and cultural icon of India. The large attendance and enthusiastic participation reflected the deep respect and admiration he continues to command across diverse sections of society.