Dr. Sandeep Marwah Attends Russian National Day Reception at Russian Embassy in New Delhi

Dr. Sandeep Marwah Attends Russian National Day Reception at Russian Embassy in New Delhi

New Delhi, India: Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Chair of the Indo-Russian Film and Cultural Forum, attended the Russian National Day Reception hosted by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in New Delhi. The prestigious event served as a significant platform for strengthening the historic and enduring friendship between India and Russia while promoting greater collaboration in the fields of art, culture, media, education, and cinema.

The reception was graced by Shri Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary of India, who attended as the Chief Guest. The distinguished gathering included senior officials of the Government of India, Members of Parliament, ambassadors and military attaches of friendly nations, eminent representatives from political, business, social, religious, scientific, and cultural communities, members of the media, and Russian compatriots residing in India.

In his welcome address, H.E. Denis Alipov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to India, highlighted Russia’s important role in global affairs amid the emergence of a multipolar world order. He emphasized the country’s growing technological and financial sovereignty and reaffirmed Russia’s unwavering commitment to its longstanding friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership with India.

Speaking to the press Dr. Sandeep Marwah stated, “India and Russia share a unique and time-tested relationship built on mutual trust, respect, and cooperation. Cultural diplomacy plays a vital role in further strengthening these ties. Through the Indo-Russian Film and Cultural Forum, we remain committed to enhancing people-to-people engagement and fostering collaboration in cinema, media, education, and the creative arts.”

Dr. Marwah interacted with diplomats, government representatives, cultural leaders, and members of the international community, discussing new avenues for bilateral cooperation and cultural exchange between the two nations.

The event reflected the strong and evolving partnership between India and Russia and reaffirmed the importance of cultural and artistic collaborations in building bridges of friendship and understanding between peoples of both countries.

Book Launched of If “It Was Love”by AAFTian Nikhil Raj Held During 128th Festival of Short Digital Films

Book Launched of If “It Was Love”by AAFTian Nikhil Raj Held During 128th Festival of Short Digital Films

Noida, June 2026: The 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City, added another memorable chapter to its rich legacy with the launch of the book “If It Was Love”, authored by talented AAFTian Nikhil Raj.

The prestigious festival witnessed the gracious presence of distinguished dignitaries including Shayron Tower, Minister-Counsellor at the Embassy of Nicaragua; Dr. Markandey Rai, Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Technological & Medical Sciences University; renowned filmmaker Praveen Arora; and celebrated AAFTian actor and model Anjali Rana, who joined the gathering to encourage young creative talent.

Launching the book, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of AAFT and President of Marwah Studios, congratulated Nikhil Raj on his literary achievement. He said, “Creative expression knows no boundaries. At AAFT, we encourage our students to explore every medium of storytelling, whether it is cinema, literature, journalism, music, or performing arts. ‘If It Was Love’ reflects the passion and imagination of a young writer, and I am proud to see our students excelling in diverse creative fields.”

Expressing his gratitude, Nikhil Raj said, “This book is very close to my heart and reflects emotions, experiences, and observations that have inspired me over the years. I am thankful to AAFT, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, my mentors, and everyone who encouraged me to pursue my passion for writing. Having my book launched at such a prestigious international festival is truly an honour.”

The launch ceremony was attended by filmmakers, writers, media professionals, students, and guests from India and abroad, making it a significant highlight of the 128th edition of the AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films.

The event once again demonstrated AAFT’s commitment to nurturing creativity and providing a global platform for emerging talent across all forms of art and communication.

Exhibition of Paintings by AAFT School of Fine Arts Students Inaugurated During 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films

Exhibition of Paintings by AAFT School of Fine Arts Students Inaugurated During 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films

Noida Film City: Adding vibrant colors and artistic brilliance to the celebrations of the 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films, an impressive exhibition of paintings created by the students of the AAFT School of Fine Arts was inaugurated by distinguished dignitaries at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City.

The exhibition showcased a diverse collection of artworks reflecting the creativity, imagination, and technical excellence of the young artists. The paintings covered a wide range of themes including nature, culture, human emotions, social issues, abstract concepts, and contemporary life, attracting the attention and appreciation of guests, filmmakers, students, and art enthusiasts attending the festival.

The inauguration was performed by the eminent guests of the festival, who commended the students for their artistic talent and applauded AAFT School of Fine Arts for providing a dynamic platform that nurtures creativity and visual expression.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT and Founder of Marwah Studios, emphasized the importance of integrating fine arts with media and creative education.

“Art is the foundation of creativity. Every great filmmaker, designer, photographer, or performer draws inspiration from art in one form or another. Through the AAFT School of Fine Arts, we are committed to encouraging young artists to explore their imagination, develop their skills, and contribute meaningfully to society through creative expression,” said Dr. Marwah.

He further stated that the exhibition perfectly complemented the spirit of the AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films, as both cinema and fine arts serve as powerful mediums of storytelling and cultural expression.

Visitors appreciated the originality and quality of the displayed works, making the exhibition one of the highlights of the festival. The event provided students with a valuable opportunity to present their creations before an international audience comprising filmmakers, diplomats, media professionals, academicians, and cultural leaders.

The successful exhibition reaffirmed AAFT’s commitment to promoting art, culture, and creativity while encouraging young talent to excel in their chosen fields and contribute to the global creative community.

Special Mention Awards Introduced at 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films

Special Mention Awards Introduced at 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films

Noida Film City: In a significant step towards recognizing cinematic excellence, the AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films has introduced a new segment dedicated to honoring outstanding short films with Special Mention Awards. Launched during the previous edition of the festival, this initiative has already gained appreciation from filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts alike.

At the grand 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films held at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida, two exceptional films were conferred with the prestigious “Special Mention” Awards in recognition of their remarkable contribution to storytelling and filmmaking.

The award was presented to “The Artiste”, directed by Ameet Prajapati, and “Girmitiya Jahajin”, directed by Dr. Om Suchi Gupta. Both films were highly appreciated for their creative vision, compelling narratives, and artistic excellence.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films and Founder of AAFT, emphasized the importance of encouraging filmmakers who demonstrate exceptional talent and originality.

“The introduction of the Special Mention Awards is another milestone in our continuous efforts to recognize and promote excellence in short filmmaking. Many films deserve appreciation beyond the regular competition categories, and this initiative allows us to honor remarkable cinematic works that leave a lasting impact on audiences and juries alike,” said Dr. Marwah.

He further stated that the AAFT Festival has always served as a launchpad for emerging filmmakers from across the globe and remains committed to creating new opportunities for talented artists to showcase their creativity.

The audience and distinguished guests applauded the award-winning filmmakers for their dedication and contribution to the art of cinema. The recognition added another memorable chapter to the historic 128th edition of the AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films, which continues to set benchmarks in nurturing fresh talent and celebrating innovation in filmmaking.

The festival concluded with renewed enthusiasm and a commitment to supporting independent cinema, creative storytelling, and emerging voices from around the world.

128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films Sets New Global Benchmark at Marwah Studios

128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films Sets New Global Benchmark at Marwah Studios

Noida Film City: The 128th edition of the AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films was inaugurated with great enthusiasm and grandeur at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City, further strengthening its position as one of the most unique and enduring film festivals in the world.

The prestigious festival witnessed the gracious presence of eminent dignitaries including Shayron Tower, Minister-Counsellor at the Embassy of Nicaragua; Dr. Markandey Rai, Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Technological & Medical Sciences University; renowned filmmaker Praveen Arora; and celebrated AAFTian actor and model Anjali Rana. The distinguished guests extended their best wishes to the participating filmmakers and appreciated AAFT’s remarkable contribution to nurturing global talent in cinema and digital media.

The day-long festival featured screenings of some of the finest short digital films created by emerging filmmakers from diverse backgrounds. The audience had the opportunity to experience a wide range of creative storytelling, innovative cinematic techniques, and socially relevant themes. The screenings were followed by a grand awards ceremony recognizing outstanding achievements across various categories of filmmaking.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of AAFT, President of Marwah Studios, and an internationally acclaimed media personality, highlighted the unparalleled achievements of the festival.

“We are once again breaking our own world record with the successful organization of the 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films. This is the only film festival in the world to have reached its 128th edition. It is also the only festival conducted four times a year, continuously providing a platform to new talent. More than 3,000 directors, and another 15000 actors, technicians, and crew members from over 120 countries have been given the opportunity to showcase their debut films through this unique initiative,” said Dr. Marwah.

He further emphasized that the festival has become a global movement dedicated to encouraging young filmmakers, promoting cultural exchange, and creating opportunities for creative minds to present their work before an international audience.

Over the years, the AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films has emerged as a significant platform for discovering fresh talent and fostering cinematic excellence. By consistently supporting first-time filmmakers and celebrating innovation in storytelling, the festival has earned worldwide recognition and has become an important milestone in the journey of countless film professionals.

The 128th edition concluded on a high note with applause for the award winners, appreciation for the participating filmmakers, and renewed commitment to strengthening the global film fraternity through education, creativity, and cultural collaboration.

ICMEI Strengthens Indo–Ecuador Relations at Special Reception Hosted by Embassy of Ecuador

ICMEI Strengthens Indo–Ecuador Relations at Special Reception Hosted by Embassy of Ecuador

New Delhi: Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) and Chair of the Indo Ecuador Film and Cultural Forum, attended a special reception hosted by H.E. Fernando Bucheli, Ambassador of the Republic of Ecuador to India, at the Embassy of Ecuador in New Delhi.

The gathering was organized to bid farewell to Mr. Jorge Anrango, Deputy Head of Mission, and to welcome Mr. Henry Larrea as the new Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Ecuador. The event brought together distinguished ambassadors, diplomats, members of the business community, and eminent personalities from the fields of art, culture, media, and international relations.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Fernando Bucheli expressed his appreciation for the contributions made by Mr. Jorge Anrango in strengthening bilateral ties between India and Ecuador and extended his best wishes for his future endeavors. He also warmly welcomed Mr. Henry Larrea and conveyed confidence that his tenure would further enhance the friendly relations and cooperation between the two nations.

“The evening was filled with music, warmth, and meaningful interactions. It provided an excellent opportunity for ambassadors, diplomats, business leaders, and cultural personalities to meet, exchange ideas, and reinforce the spirit of international friendship,” said Dr. Marwah.

The reception reflected the strong and growing relationship between India and Ecuador, highlighting the importance of cultural diplomacy, people-to-people engagement, and collaborative initiatives in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

Dr. Marwah reiterated the commitment of ICMEI and the Indo Ecuador Film and Cultural Forum to promoting cultural exchange, media cooperation, and stronger people-to-people connections between the two friendly nations.

The evening concluded on a positive note, celebrating friendship, cooperation, and the shared vision of strengthening Indo–Ecuador relations through diplomacy, culture, and dialogue.

Battle of the Bands Rocks Marwah Studios: AAFT School of Music Showcases Exceptional Musical Talent

Battle of the Bands Rocks Marwah Studios: AAFT School of Music Showcases Exceptional Musical Talent

Noida Film City: A spectacular musical extravaganza unfolded at Marwah Studios as the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), in association with the AAFT School of Music, successfully organized the much-awaited OVERDRIVE 5.0 Battle of the Bands, featuring ten energetic and highly talented bands from AAFT.

The event transformed Marwah Studios into a vibrant celebration of music, creativity, and youthful energy as each band delivered outstanding performances, captivating the audience with a rich blend of contemporary, fusion, rock, and popular musical compositions. The competition provided a unique platform for emerging musicians to showcase their artistic excellence, teamwork, and stage presence.

The performances were evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges, and after a closely contested competition, the Best Band and Second Best Band were honoured with special awards presented by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, President of Marwah Studios, Chancellor of AAFT University, and President of ICMEI.

Addressing the participants and audience, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said, “Music is the universal language of humanity. It transcends borders, cultures, and languages, bringing people together through harmony and emotion. At AAFT, we believe in nurturing creativity and providing young artists with opportunities to perform, compete, and excel on professional platforms. The Battle of the Bands is not just a competition; it is a celebration of talent, passion, and artistic expression.”

Dr. Marwah further emphasized the importance of music education in shaping confident, disciplined, and innovative individuals. He appreciated the efforts of the faculty and students of the AAFT School of Music for organizing and participating in an event of such high artistic standards.

The audience witnessed an evening filled with electrifying performances, original compositions, and remarkable musical arrangements, reflecting the quality of training and creative excellence promoted by AAFT. The event also reinforced AAFT’s commitment to providing industry-oriented exposure and practical learning opportunities to aspiring musicians.

The Battle of the Bands concluded with thunderous applause, award presentations, and a renewed commitment to promoting music and performing arts among the youth. The event once again established Marwah Studios and AAFT as leading institutions dedicated to encouraging artistic talent and fostering cultural excellence.

The successful program added another milestone to the long list of creative and cultural initiatives regularly organized by ICMEI and AAFT for the promotion of arts, culture, and entertainment on national and international platforms.