AAFT Conferred National Leadership Award at Bharat Samman 2026

AAFT Conferred National Leadership Award at Bharat Samman 2026

Noida, 28 July 2026: Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT), India’s pioneering institution in creative arts education and skill development, was honoured with the prestigious National Leadership Award at the National Leadership Conclave and Bharat Samman 2026 held at Hotel Leela Ambience Convention Centre.

The award was presented by Shri Ramdas Athawale, Hon’ble Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, in recognition of AAFT’s distinction as the oldest skill development institution in the country and for nurturing the largest number of student-led startups through its innovative education ecosystem.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ravi, Founder and President of the National Leadership Conclave, applauded AAFT’s extraordinary contribution to education and entrepreneurship. He remarked that AAFT has emerged as a benchmark for skill-based learning by empowering thousands of young minds with practical knowledge, creativity, innovation, and leadership, enabling them to establish successful startups and contribute significantly to the nation’s economy.

Receiving the honour, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, President of Marwah Studios, and Chancellor of AAFT University, expressed his gratitude and dedicated the award to the students, faculty, alumni, and industry partners who have been instrumental in AAFT’s remarkable journey.

“This recognition reinforces our commitment to skill development, innovation, and entrepreneurship. At AAFT, we have always believed that education must inspire students not only to seek employment but also to become job creators. Our mission has been to provide world-class practical education that empowers young talent to transform ideas into successful enterprises. This award motivates us to continue creating leaders who will contribute to the growth of India and the global creative economy,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah.

Over the years, AAFT has established itself as one of the world’s leading institutions for media, arts, and creative education, producing thousands of professionals and entrepreneurs across diverse disciplines. Through its industry-oriented curriculum, incubation initiatives, and global collaborations, the institution continues to strengthen India’s position as a hub for creative excellence and innovation.

The National Leadership Award adds another significant milestone to AAFT’s illustrious legacy of excellence in education, skill development, and nation-building, reaffirming its vision of empowering youth through quality education, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

AAFT Celebrates National Broadcast Day at Marwah Studios with Rotary E-Club of Winter Haven

AAFT Celebrates National Broadcast Day at Marwah Studios with Rotary E-Club of Winter Haven

Noida: The Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT) celebrated National Broadcast Day with great enthusiasm at Marwah Studios, Film City Noida, in association with the Rotary E-Club of Winter Haven 6890, Florida. The event was supported by Radio Noida, Radio Raipur, Radio Mumbai, and MSTV, bringing together media professionals, students, broadcasters, and communication experts to acknowledge the vital role of broadcasting in nation-building and public awareness.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and President of the Rotary E-Club of Winter Haven 6890, Florida, highlighted the significance of broadcasting as one of the most powerful instruments of communication.

“National Broadcast Day reminds us of the immense responsibility carried by broadcasters in informing, educating, and entertaining society. From the early days of radio to today’s digital broadcasting platforms, the medium has played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion, preserving culture, and connecting communities across geographical boundaries,” said Dr. Marwah.

He further added, “Broadcasting is not merely about transmitting information; it is about building trust, inspiring positive change, and giving a voice to every section of society. At AAFT, we have always believed in nurturing responsible media professionals who uphold the highest standards of ethics, creativity, and professionalism. Our students are trained to become storytellers who contribute meaningfully to society through television, radio, digital media, and emerging broadcasting technologies.”

Dr. Marwah also acknowledged the valuable contribution of Radio Noida, Radio Raipur, Radio Mumbai, and MSTV in promoting education, culture, social awareness, and community engagement through quality broadcasting.

The programme featured discussions on the evolution of broadcasting in India, the impact of digital technologies on the media landscape, and the growing opportunities for young professionals in the broadcasting industry. Students and faculty members participated enthusiastically, reaffirming their commitment to innovation and excellence in media and communication.

The celebration concluded with a collective pledge to strengthen the values of responsible journalism and broadcasting while promoting love, peace, unity, and informed citizenship through the powerful medium of radio, television, and digital broadcasting.

“Every Obstacle Became a Stepping Stone” – Dr. Sandeep Marwah Delivers Emotional Address on 33 Years of AAFT

“Every Obstacle Became a Stepping Stone” – Dr. Sandeep Marwah Delivers Emotional Address on 33 Years of AAFT

Noida, 22 July 2026: An atmosphere of pride, gratitude, and celebration filled Marwah Studios, Film City Noida, as the 33rd Founders Day of the Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT) was celebrated with great enthusiasm. The occasion also coincided with the 10th Anniversary of the Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum, making it a memorable milestone in the journey of creativity, education, and international cultural relations.

Addressing a distinguished gathering of diplomats, artists, filmmakers, academicians, media professionals, alumni, students, and friends of AAFT, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of AAFT and President of Marwah Studios, delivered an emotional speech reflecting on the remarkable journey of the institution from a dream to a globally respected centre of excellence.

Recalling the early days, Dr. Marwah said, “In 1993, when we started AAFT, very few people believed that India could have a world-class institution dedicated exclusively to creative arts and media education. The journey was never easy. We faced countless difficulties, financial constraints, scepticism, obstacles, and challenges. There were moments when every step seemed impossible, but our determination was stronger than every hurdle.”

He continued, “Today, as we celebrate 33 glorious years of AAFT, I feel humbled to see that the same institution has grown into one of the finest creative institutions in the world. This achievement belongs not to one individual but to every student, faculty member, staff member, industry partner, well-wisher, and friend who stood with us throughout this incredible journey.”

Speaking with deep emotion, Dr. Marwah expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the institution’s success. “No institution is built by one person alone. Every brick of AAFT carries the blessings, hard work, faith, and dedication of thousands of people. I sincerely thank each and every individual who believed in our vision and helped transform this dream into a global reality. Your support has been the greatest strength behind our success.”

Highlighting AAFT’s extraordinary achievements, Dr. Marwah proudly shared that the institution has earned 12 World Records, a reflection of its unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and quality education in media, arts, cinema, journalism, fashion, animation, hospitality, performing arts, and other creative disciplines.

He further emphasised that AAFT has always believed in education beyond classrooms, nurturing creativity while promoting values of peace, unity, and cultural understanding.

The celebration also marked 10 successful years of the Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum, an initiative established under the leadership of Dr. Marwah to strengthen the long-standing friendship between India and Nepal through films, media, art, culture, education, and people-to-people exchanges. The gathering applauded the Forum’s significant contribution to cultural diplomacy over the past decade.

The event was filled with tributes, honours, cultural performances, and messages of appreciation from eminent dignitaries from India and abroad, all acknowledging Dr. Sandeep Marwah’s visionary leadership and his unparalleled contribution to creative education and international cultural relations.

The celebrations concluded with a standing ovation, as guests joined together in applauding the extraordinary legacy of 33 years of AAFT—a journey that transformed a bold vision into a globally recognised institution—and reaffirmed their commitment to carrying forward its mission of “Love, Peace, and Unity Through Art and Culture.”

Dr. Surendra Thapa Honours Dr. Sandeep Marwah; Appointed Patron of Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum

Dr. Surendra Thapa Honours Dr. Sandeep Marwah; Appointed Patron of Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum

Noida, 22 July: The celebration of 10 years of the Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum and the 33rd Founders Day of the Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT) at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City, was marked by a special moment as Dr. Surendra Kumar Thapa, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Nepal, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Nepal, honoured Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Chair of the Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum, for his outstanding contribution to strengthening cultural and cinematic relations between India and Nepal.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said, “I am deeply honoured to receive this appreciation from Dr. Surendra Thapa and the Embassy of Nepal. The Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum was established with the vision of bringing the people of our two friendly nations closer through cinema, media, art, education, and culture. Over the last ten years, the Forum has successfully created numerous opportunities for dialogue, artistic exchange, and mutual understanding. This recognition inspires us to continue working with even greater commitment towards enhancing the age-old friendship between India and Nepal.”

On this significant occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah also had the privilege of presenting the Patronship of the Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum to Dr. Surendra Kumar Thapa in recognition of his valuable support and dedication to promoting bilateral cultural relations.

Accepting the Patronship, Dr. Surendra Thapa said, “It is a great honour to be associated with the Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum. Under the visionary leadership of Dr. Sandeep Marwah, the Forum has become an important bridge connecting the people of Nepal and India through art and culture. The strong historical, cultural, and spiritual ties between our two countries deserve to be celebrated and strengthened through such meaningful initiatives. I look forward to supporting the Forum in its future endeavours.”

The celebrations brought together distinguished personalities from the diplomatic corps, the film fraternity, academia, and the media, reflecting the shared commitment of India and Nepal to promoting cultural diplomacy and people-to-people connections.

The event concluded with renewed resolve to further strengthen Indo-Nepal relations through collaborative initiatives in films, media, education, tourism, literature, and the performing arts, reinforcing the enduring friendship between the two neighbouring nations.

Ravi Kottarakara Honours Dr. Sandeep Marwah with the Titles “Srishtikarta” and “Vishwamitra” on AAFT Founders Day

Ravi Kottarakara Honours Dr. Sandeep Marwah with the Titles “Srishtikarta” and “Vishwamitra” on AAFT Founders Day

Noida, 22 July: In a grand celebration marking the 33rd Founders Day of the Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT) at Marwah Studios, Film City Noida, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of AAFT and Marwah Studios, was honoured and appreciated by Ravi Kottarakara, who felicitated him on behalf of the Film Federation of India (FFI) and as President of the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce.

In a heartfelt tribute, Ravi Kottarakara conferred upon Dr. Marwah the honorary titles of “Srishtikarta” (The Creator) and “Vishwamitra” (Friend of the World) in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to building one of the world’s most respected institutions dedicated to media, cinema, art, and creative education, while fostering friendship and cultural diplomacy across nations.

Speaking on the occasion, Ravi Kottarakara said, “Dr. Sandeep Marwah has created an institution that has become a global benchmark in media and creative education. His relentless commitment to nurturing talent and promoting international cultural relations has earned him admiration worldwide. The titles ‘Srishtikarta’ and ‘Vishwamitra’ truly reflect his remarkable vision and his lifelong mission of connecting the world through art, culture, and education.”

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said, “I am deeply honoured by this recognition from the Film Federation of India and the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce. These titles inspire me to continue working with greater dedication towards strengthening the creative industries, empowering young talent, and promoting love, peace, and unity through art and culture.”

The celebration commemorated 33 years of AAFT’s remarkable journey, during which the institution has emerged as one of the world’s leading centres for media and arts education, producing thousands of successful professionals and contributing significantly to the growth of the creative economy. The event witnessed the presence of distinguished personalities from the film fraternity, academia, media, and cultural organisations, who joined in celebrating AAFT’s enduring legacy of excellence.

The ceremony concluded with a standing ovation for Dr. Sandeep Marwah’s visionary leadership and his continuing contribution to the Indian and global media and entertainment industry.

AAFT Celebrates 33 Glorious Years and 10 Years of Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum at Marwah Studios

AAFT Celebrates 33 Glorious Years and 10 Years of Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum at Marwah Studios

Noida: A grand celebration marking 33 Years of the Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT) and the 10th Anniversary of the Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum (INFCF) was held at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida, bringing together eminent personalities from India and Nepal to celebrate the enduring bond of education, cinema, and cultural diplomacy.

The prestigious event was graced by Dr. Surendra Kumar Thapa, Chargé d’Affaires, Embassy of Nepal; Ravi Kottarakara, President of the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce; Janak Deep Parajuli, representing the Film Directors Guild of Nepal; and the star cast and director of the Nepali feature film “Gunyo Cholo,” including Director Samudra Bhatt and lead actor Najir Husen.

The distinguished guests congratulated Dr. Sandeep Marwah and the entire AAFT family for completing 33 remarkable years of excellence in media and arts education. They appreciated the institution’s pioneering role in nurturing creative talent and acknowledged Marwah Studios’ unparalleled contribution to strengthening international cultural relations through its global initiatives, which also led to the establishment of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI).

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of AAFT and President of Marwah Studios, reflected on the institution’s inspiring journey. “For the last 33 years, AAFT has been committed to transforming passion into profession by empowering thousands of young creative minds from across India and around the world. What began as a dream has today evolved into an international movement in media, arts, education, and cultural diplomacy. Our collaboration with more than a hundred countries and the creation of ICMEI have further strengthened India’s cultural presence across the globe. We remain dedicated to building bridges of friendship through art, culture, education, and cinema,” said Dr. Marwah.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Surendra Kumar Thapa, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of Nepal, praised the exceptional contribution of AAFT and the Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum. “AAFT has emerged as one of the finest institutions in the field of creative education, while the Indo Nepal Film and Cultural Forum has played a vital role in bringing the people of India and Nepal closer through cinema and culture. Such initiatives significantly strengthen bilateral relations and deepen mutual understanding between our two nations,” he remarked.

Ravi Kottarakara, President of the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce, congratulated Dr. Sandeep Marwah for creating one of India’s most respected creative institutions. “The journey of AAFT over the past 33 years is an inspiring example of vision, dedication, and excellence. Dr. Marwah’s contribution to the Indian film industry, media education, and international cultural cooperation is truly remarkable. His efforts have inspired generations of filmmakers, artists, and media professionals,” said Ravi Kottarakara.

As a mark of respect and appreciation, Dr. Sandeep Marwah presented the Life Membership of the International Film and Television Club (IFTC) to all the distinguished dignitaries, recognising their valuable contribution to cinema, culture, and international cooperation.

The celebrations concluded with the special screening of the acclaimed Nepali feature film “Gunyo Cholo,” directed by Samudra Bhatt, providing the audience with an opportunity to experience contemporary Nepali cinema and further reinforcing the cultural partnership between India and Nepal.

The event reaffirmed AAFT’s enduring commitment to excellence in education and its mission of promoting global friendship, peace, and cultural exchange through the powerful mediums of cinema, media, and the arts.

Hon’ble Mr. Justice Satyendra Singh Chauhan Visits International Headquarters of WPDRF at Marwah Studios

Hon’ble Mr. Justice Satyendra Singh Chauhan Visits International Headquarters of WPDRF at Marwah Studios

Noida: The International Headquarters of the World Peace Development and Research Foundation (WPDRF) at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida, had the privilege of welcoming Hon’ble Mr. Justice Satyendra Singh Chauhan of the Allahabad High Court during his visit to the campus.

During the visit, Justice Chauhan toured the state-of-the-art facilities of the AAFT Education Group, gaining an insight into its diverse schools, international collaborations, and its contribution to media, arts, culture, and skill development. He also visited the headquarters of the World Peace Development and Research Foundation, where he was briefed about the Foundation’s global initiatives promoting love, peace, and unity through art and culture.

In recognition of his distinguished contribution to the judiciary and society, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and President of the World Peace Development and Research Foundation, presented Life Membership of WPDRF to Hon’ble Mr. Justice Satyendra Singh Chauhan.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said, “It is a matter of great honour to welcome Hon’ble Mr. Justice Satyendra Singh Chauhan to the International Headquarters of the World Peace Development and Research Foundation. The judiciary plays a vital role in upholding justice, harmony, and constitutional values. We are privileged to confer Life Membership of WPDRF upon Justice Chauhan in recognition of his distinguished service and his commitment to the principles of justice and humanity. We look forward to his continued guidance in our mission of promoting love, peace, and unity through art and culture.”

Expressing his appreciation, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Satyendra Singh Chauhan said, “I am delighted to visit Marwah Studios and witness the remarkable work being undertaken by AAFT and the World Peace Development and Research Foundation. The efforts of Dr. Sandeep Marwah and his team in promoting education, culture, international cooperation, and peace through creative mediums are truly commendable. I am honoured to receive the Life Membership of WPDRF and wish the organisation continued success in its noble mission.”

The visit concluded with an interactive session on the role of education, culture, and ethical values in building a peaceful and progressive society. The occasion further strengthened the Foundation’s commitment to bringing together leaders from different walks of life to promote global peace, harmony, and sustainable development through meaningful dialogue and cultural engagement.