Goa, India: Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and President of AAFT School of Hospitality & Tourism, visited Goa on a special tour focused on the study and promotion of tourism. The visit aimed to understand Goa’s dynamic tourism model, cultural richness, hospitality infrastructure, and its potential integration with media, entertainment, and creative industries.
During his visit, Dr. Marwah interacted with tourism professionals, hospitality experts, local stakeholders, and representatives of the creative fraternity. He appreciated Goa’s balanced approach towards sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and global outreach, which has made the state one of India’s most popular international destinations.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said, “Goa is a perfect example of how culture, heritage, nature, and tourism can coexist harmoniously. There is immense scope for collaboration between tourism and creative industries such as films, festivals, fashion, and cultural events. Such synergies can further enhance global visibility and economic growth.”
Dr. Marwah also explored opportunities for organizing international cultural programs, film-related activities, and academic exchanges in Goa, involving students and professionals from India and abroad. He emphasized that tourism studies play a vital role in policy planning, education, and international cooperation.
The visit concluded with Dr. Marwah expressing gratitude to the people of Goa for their warmth and hospitality, while reaffirming his commitment to promoting Love, Peace, and Unity through Art, Culture, and Tourism.
Dr. Sandeep Marwah Extends New Year Greetings to AAFTians Worldwide
Noida, India Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University and Founder of Marwah Studios, extended his warmest New Year greetings to AAFTians across the globe, wishing everyone a very Happy and Prosperous New Year.
While interacting with the press, Dr. Marwah shared that he has been invited along with a group of associates to Goa to celebrate New Year 2026. He expressed his sincere gratitude to the people of Goa for their warmth and gracious hospitality and conveyed his best wishes to everyone for a joyful and memorable New Year.
As the Chancellor of AAFT University, Dr. Sandeep Marwah also conveyed his heartfelt wishes to the management, faculty, staff, and every student of AAFT. He acknowledged their dedication and contribution toward building a vibrant academic and creative ecosystem.
“I pray for the betterment and prosperity of everyone connected with AAFT and Marwah Studios. May the New Year arrive with good luck, renewed energy, new opportunities, flourishing business, robust health, and abundant prosperity for all,” said Dr. Marwah.
Dr. Marwah’s message reflected optimism, unity, and hope, reinforcing his continued commitment to nurturing talent and promoting excellence in education, media, entertainment, art, and culture.
ICMEI Conveys Warm Greetings to Mongolia on Independence Day
Noida, India | 29 December Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), on behalf of the Media and Entertainment Industry and the Art and Culture fraternity, extended his heartiest congratulations to His Excellency Mr. Dambajav Ganbold, Ambassador of Mongolia, and to the people of Mongolia on the auspicious occasion of Independence Day, celebrated on 29th December.
Dr. Sandeep Marwah highlighted the deep-rooted and time-tested friendship between India and Mongolia, describing the bilateral relationship as one based on mutual respect, shared cultural values, and strong people-to-people connections. He emphasized that Mongolia has been an active and valued partner of ICMEI, participating consistently in almost every major international program, festival, and cultural initiative organized by the chamber.
“Mongolia’s association with ICMEI reflects our shared commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy, creative collaboration, and global harmony through art, cinema, and cultural exchange,” said Dr. Marwah.
Recalling a proud moment, Dr. Marwah shared that he was honoured by the President of Mongolia during his visit to India a few years ago, in recognition of his efforts to strengthen cultural relations and foster cooperation through the Indo–Mongolia Film and Cultural Forum.
On this significant national occasion, ICMEI reaffirmed its resolve to further deepen cultural and creative ties with Mongolia and conveyed its best wishes for the nation’s continued progress, peace, and prosperity.
Grand Closing Ceremony Marks a Historic Conclusion of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida
Noida, India: The 18th Global Film Festival Noida concluded on a spectacular note with a vibrant Closing Ceremony, reaffirming its stature as the biggest academic film festival in the world. The ceremony witnessed the presence of eminent personalities from cinema, media, music, fashion, and digital platforms, making it a fitting finale to three days of unparalleled cinematic and cultural celebration.
The closing ceremony was graced by Komal Nahata, veteran journalist and renowned trade analyst; Kashish Rajput, celebrated actress; Aman Srivastava, noted singer; Purnima, eminent anchor; Himadari Dave, renowned model; and Aishwariya Bisht, prominent fashion blogger and digital influencer, who collectively lauded the scale, vision, and global impact of the festival.
Addressing the packed house, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Festival President and Founder of Noida Film City, presented an impressive overview of the festival’s magnitude. He informed that the three-day festival successfully delivered 52 high-impact events encompassing the entire spectrum of media and entertainment. These included workshops, seminars, interactive sessions, poster launches, screenings of 17 international films, photography and fine arts exhibitions, still photography portfolio presentations, book releases, retrospectives of acclaimed filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, and AAFT Channel presentations.
Dr. Marwah further highlighted unique attractions such as the International Food Festival featuring cuisines from 21 countries, commercial film-making products market, nukad natak, fashion shows, musical performances, bands, and the disciplined participation of Scouts and Guides throughout the festival. Special mentions were made of MSTV OTT podcasts, Radio Noida, Radio Raipur, and Radio Mumbai operating live on the job, adding a powerful broadcast dimension to the event.
The 9th Edition of Hindi Cinema Samman and presentation of awards to giants of Indian Film Industry along with presentation of Festival Mementos graced the festival and made it more colourful.
The festival recorded an extraordinary involvement of 90 countries, with participation from 130 film, television, media, art, and cultural organizations, and coverage by over 600 media houses from across the world. AAFT’s 16 colleges and AAFT University of Media Arts served as proud hosts, supported by 108 distinguished speakers from India and abroad.
Adding to its global prestige, the festival welcomed 28 Ambassadors and High Commissioners of different countries. IndiGo and Air India partnered as official airline partners, and Hotel Eros, Nehru Place served as the host partner. With a remarkable footfall of 16,500, the festival once again set new benchmarks in scale, participation, and impact.
Declaring the festival a resounding success, it was officially announced that the 18th Global Film Festival Noida has once again been recognized as the largest academic film festival in the world.
In a heartfelt conclusion, Ashok Tyagi, Festival Director, along with Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Festival President, presented a comprehensive vote of thanks to every department, institution, partner, volunteer, and individual who contributed to making the festival the most successful and dynamic film festival of its kind globally.
The 18th Global Film Festival Noida ended with renewed energy, global goodwill, and a strong commitment to continue promoting cinema, education, art, and culture as powerful instruments of unity and global dialogue.
18th Global Film Festival Noida Hosts Powerful Seminar on“Will Indian Cinema Become the Leader of World Cinema”
Noida, India: A thought-provoking and high-impact seminar titled “Will Indian Cinema Become the Leader of World Cinema” was successfully presented during the 18th Global Film Festival Noida, drawing an engaged audience of filmmakers, students, artists, and media professionals. The session brought together distinguished voices from cinema, journalism, music, fashion, and digital influence to deliberate on India’s growing global cinematic footprint.
The seminar was initiated by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, President of Marwah Studios, and Festival President, who warmly welcomed all the speakers and participants. Setting the tone, Dr. Marwah stated that Indian cinema has already emerged as a powerful global force, backed by its rich storytelling tradition, diverse languages, strong emotional connect, growing international collaborations, and the expanding reach of digital platforms. He emphasized that with quality content, technical excellence, and global vision, Indian cinema is well-positioned to lead world cinema in the coming years.
Komal Nahata, veteran film journalist and renowned trade analyst, offered a sharp industry perspective. He said that Indian cinema today enjoys unprecedented global visibility and commercial strength. “What is required now is consistency in content, strong distribution strategies, and confidence in our own narratives. The world is ready to consume Indian stories,” he observed.
Renowned actress Kashish Rajput highlighted the changing dynamics of cinema and the rising importance of meaningful roles. She said that Indian actors are now being recognized internationally for their talent and versatility. “Cinema from India is no longer confined to stereotypes; it is bold, experimental, and globally relevant,” she added.
Singer Aman Srivastava spoke about the universal appeal of Indian music in films. He emphasized that music remains one of the strongest pillars of Indian cinema, capable of crossing borders and cultures. “Indian film music has the power to emotionally connect audiences worldwide and strengthen the global impact of our cinema,” he said.
Anchor Purnima focused on the role of presentation, media, and communication in shaping cinema’s global image. She stated that festivals like the Global Film Festival Noida play a crucial role in creating dialogue, nurturing talent, and positioning Indian cinema on prestigious international platforms.
Renowned model Himadari Dave spoke about the growing integration of fashion, style, and visual aesthetics in Indian films. She said that Indian cinema today matches global standards in glamour, design, and visual storytelling, making it more competitive on the world stage.
Fashion blogger and digital influencer Aishwariya Bisht highlighted the power of social media and digital influence. She said that digital creators and influencers are amplifying the reach of Indian cinema globally. “Online platforms have made Indian cinema accessible to international audiences instantly, giving it a massive advantage,” she noted.
The seminar concluded with an optimistic consensus that Indian cinema is on a strong trajectory to become a global leader, driven by creativity, cultural depth, technological advancement, and international collaboration. The session reinforced the role of the Global Film Festival Noida as a significant platform for meaningful cinematic discourse and global cultural exchange.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee Remembered at Marwah Studios on His 101st Birth Anniversary on 25th December
Noida, 25 December: Marwah Studios paid rich tributes to Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former Prime Minister of India, on the occasion of his 101st birth anniversary, observed on 25th December, which is also marked nationwide as Good Governance Day. The commemorative program celebrated the life, vision, and enduring legacy of one of India’s most respected statesmen and eminent poets.
While addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Asian Academy of Arts, recalled the unparalleled contribution of Atal Bihari Vajpayee to the nation. He emphasized that Shri Vajpayee’s ideals of democracy, cultural harmony, and ethical governance continue to inspire generations across India and beyond.
Dr. Marwah further highlighted that in August 2018, soon after the passing of the former Prime Minister on 18th August 2018, the Asian Academy of Arts instituted the Atal Bihari Vajpayee National Award for the Promotion of Art and Culture on 28th August 2018. “This national-level award was created to honor individuals who have made outstanding contributions to art and culture, as a mark of respect to the great poet and statesman of the Republic of India,” he said.
On the occasion, a commemorative poster was showcased, and members present shared their reflections and remarks, which were formally recorded and preserved in the archives of the Academy, documenting this historic remembrance.
The audience was also reminded of Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s distinguished political journey—serving three terms as Prime Minister of India, remaining a Member of Parliament for over four decades, being elected ten times to the Lok Sabha and twice to the Rajya Sabha, and receiving India’s highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 2015.
Dr. Marwah added, “The Asian Education Group, Marwah Studios, and the hundreds of institutions associated with us remain committed to upholding the values and vision of Atal Bihari Vajpayee through continuous efforts in art, culture, literature, and education.”
The commemorative event concluded with a collective resolve to carry forward the ideals of good governance, cultural enrichment, and national unity, paying homage to the timeless legacy of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
AAFT Students Lead Promotion of First-Ever National Award “CINEKIND” at 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025
Noida, India: Students of AAFT (Asian Academy of Film & Television) took the lead in promoting the first-ever National Award “CINEKIND”, announced by the Film Federation of India (FFI) in association with People For Animals, a renowned voluntary organization founded by Smt. Maneka Gandhi. The prestigious announcement was made during the 18th Global Film Festival Noida 2025, held at Marwah Studios.
The CINEKIND Award has been instituted with the noble objective of encouraging filmmakers to create meaningful cinema that reflects sympathy, compassion, and kindness towards animals. The award aims to recognize and honor films that sensitively highlight animal welfare and promote humane values through powerful storytelling.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Chair of the CINEKIND Awards Committee, emphasized the importance of launching and promoting such an initiative during a major cultural celebration. “This is a golden opportunity for all of us to highlight the CINEKIND Award during the auspicious days of the festival. With over 15,000 footfalls, 52 events, and an intense three-day cultural extravaganza, the message we wish to convey can reach far and wide,” said Dr. Marwah.
He further added, “Through CINEKIND, we want to create awareness and inspire filmmakers to think responsibly. Films that project empathy, sensitivity, and kindness towards animals will be appreciated and awarded. Cinema has the power to influence society, and this initiative is a step towards using that power for a compassionate cause.”
The enthusiastic participation of AAFT students in promoting the award added youthful energy and purpose to the initiative, reinforcing the festival’s larger vision of ‘Love, Peace, and Unity through Art and Culture’.
The announcement of the CINEKIND Award at the Global Film Festival Noida marks a significant milestone in Indian cinema, opening new avenues for socially responsible filmmaking and advocacy for animal welfare. The T-Shirts were specially designed by Ash Cult for the occasion.
