AAFT Celebrates 129th Batch Convocation, Marking 34 Years of Creative Education

AAFT Celebrates 129th Batch Convocation, Marking 34 Years of Creative Education

Noida: The Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT) celebrated the convocation of its 129th batch at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City, marking another significant milestone in its 34-year journey of creative education.

AAFT described the occasion as an extraordinary achievement, stating that it is the only creative institution to have reached the landmark of 129 batches in just 34 years. The ceremony celebrated the graduating students’ dedication, creative development and readiness to begin their professional journeys.

Kapil Kumar, renowned actor, writer and politician from Belgium, addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of creativity, cultural understanding and perseverance in an increasingly interconnected world.

“Creative education gives young people the ability to express ideas, understand different perspectives and connect communities. As you step into your professional lives, remain curious, respect your craft and embrace opportunities to learn across cultures. Your talent, supported by discipline and determination, can open doors around the world,” said Kapil Kumar.

Delivering the convocation address, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT and Chancellor of AAFT University of Media and Arts, congratulated the outgoing students and urged them to approach their careers with confidence, integrity and a commitment to continuous learning.

“Work is worship. Your education at AAFT has given you a foundation; now your dedication, conduct and creativity will shape your future. Be punctual, remain disciplined and give your best to every assignment. Success grows through consistent effort, teamwork and the courage to keep learning,” said Dr. Marwah.

He encouraged graduates to combine technical knowledge with original thinking and to remain responsive to changes in cinema, media and the wider creative industries. He also emphasised that professional achievement carries a responsibility to contribute positively to society.

“Use your creativity to tell meaningful stories, bring people together and inspire positive change. Wherever your journey takes you, carry forward the spirit of ‘Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture,’” Dr. Marwah added.

The convocation reaffirmed AAFT’s commitment to nurturing creative professionals and preparing students to contribute to the industry. For the graduating 129th batch, the occasion marked both the completion of an important chapter of learning and the beginning of new professional aspirations.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah Nominated Patron of Film & Television Producers Association at Grand Gathering

Dr. Sandeep Marwah Nominated Patron of Film & Television Producers Association at Grand Gathering

New Delhi: Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, President of Marwah Studios and Vice President of the Film Federation of India, was nominated and felicitated as Patron of the Film & Television Producers Association (FTPA) at a grand gathering held at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia.

The gathering brought together distinguished members of FTPA to celebrate professional fellowship and honour Dr. Marwah’s contribution to the growth of India’s Media and Entertainment Industry, particularly his pioneering role in developing a creative ecosystem in North India.

Introducing Dr. Marwah, Vishal Sethi, General Secretary of FTPA, described him as a legend of the Indian Media and Entertainment Industry. He praised Dr. Marwah’s work in building an environment where film and television production, media education and creative talent could develop together.

Calling him the “Amitabh Bachchan of North India,” Sethi expressed the association’s admiration for the scale and breadth of Dr. Marwah’s contribution. He said that his work held a distinctive place in the industry and that FTPA was honoured to welcome him as its Patron.

The felicitation recognised a professional journey dedicated to creating opportunities for filmmakers, television producers, artists, technicians and aspiring media professionals. Through Noida Film City, Marwah Studios and his educational initiatives, Dr. Marwah has helped strengthen the foundations of the creative industries in North India.

Accepting the honour, Dr. Marwah expressed his gratitude to Vishal Sethi and the distinguished members of FTPA for their affection, confidence and recognition. He welcomed the opportunity to support the association and highlighted the importance of unity, professional cooperation and encouragement for emerging talent.

In proposed acceptance remarks, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said: “I am deeply honoured to be nominated as Patron of the Film & Television Producers Association. My sincere thanks to Vishal Sethi and every member of FTPA for their affection and confidence. This honour strengthens my commitment to serving our creative community. Together, we can encourage talent, support producers and create greater opportunities for the film and television industry.”

The gathering marked a significant moment in Dr. Marwah’s association with FTPA, reinforcing a shared commitment to strengthening the industry and advancing the interests of its creative and professional community.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah and Anil Kapoor Discuss Indian Cinema’s Growing Global Potential

Dr. Sandeep Marwah and Anil Kapoor Discuss Indian Cinema’s Growing Global Potential

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Vice President of the Film Federation of India, President of Marwah Studios and Founder of Noida Film City, held an inspiring discussion with legendary actor Anil Kapoor on the evolving landscape of Indian cinema and opportunities to strengthen India’s Media and Entertainment Industry on the global stage.

The exchange brought together perspectives on creativity, changing audience expectations and the international potential of Indian storytelling. They explored ideas on how the industry can collectively build greater global visibility and create new opportunities for Indian talent.

Reflecting on the interaction, Dr. Marwah highlighted the importance of connecting the experience of established cinema professionals with the imagination of emerging filmmakers. He emphasised that India’s rich cultural diversity, creative talent and filmmaking expertise provide a strong foundation for expanding its international presence.

In proposed remarks, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said: “It was a wonderful and inspiring experience to exchange thoughts on cinema with Anil Kapoor, whose remarkable journey continues to motivate generations of artists. Indian cinema has enormous potential to connect with audiences across the world. Through stronger collaboration, investment in talent, meaningful storytelling and international partnerships, we can collectively take India’s Media and Entertainment Industry to greater heights.”

Speaking in his capacity as Vice President of the Film Federation of India, Dr. Marwah also stressed the value of sustained dialogue among actors, filmmakers, producers, educators and industry organisations. Such engagement, he noted, can help translate creative ambition into practical opportunities for the wider film community.

The discussion reflected a shared interest in the future of Indian cinema and its capacity to serve as a powerful expression of India’s creativity, culture and global influence.

Sandeep Marwah Nominated Chair of Indo Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum at 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Sandeep Marwah Nominated Chair of Indo Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum at 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Noida: In a significant step towards strengthening cultural cooperation between India and Costa Rica, Dr. Sandeep Marwah was nominated Chair of the Indo Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum by H.E. Nestor Gabriel Baltodano Vargas, Ambassador of Costa Rica to India, during the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026 at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City.

The nomination recognised Dr. Marwah’s sustained contribution to cinema, media education and international cultural exchange. As President of Marwah Studios, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT University of Media and Arts, he has championed art and culture as instruments of friendship and understanding across borders.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Nestor Gabriel Baltodano Vargas said: “India and Costa Rica share a deep appreciation for creativity, cultural diversity and friendship. The Indo Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum offers a valuable platform to bring our people closer through cinema, education and artistic exchange. We are delighted to nominate Dr. Sandeep Marwah as its Chair and look forward to his leadership in developing meaningful connections between our creative communities.”

Accepting the responsibility, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said: “I am honoured by the confidence expressed in me by His Excellency and the Embassy of Costa Rica. Cinema and culture speak a universal language that connects people and builds lasting friendships. Through this forum, we will endeavour to encourage film screenings, cultural programmes, educational exchanges and opportunities for artists and students from both countries, guided by our belief in ‘Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture.’”

The presentation took place in the presence of H.E. Hanisha Jairam, Ambassador of Suriname; R. S. Mishra, IAS; Jang Jong Hwan, Counsellor, Embassy of DPR Korea; Jimy Trujillo, Second Secretary, Embassy of Peru; Dr. Dilip Kumar Kowkonda, Founder of Hyderabad Smiles; Dr. Amit Behl, renowned actor; Aroon Bakshi, acclaimed actor and singer; Mehul Kumar, distinguished filmmaker and writer; Dipali Mathur Tayal, Miss Universe Bharat; and Anoop Lather, actor and Chairperson, Culture Council & PRO, University of Delhi.

A large audience from different parts of India and the world witnessed the occasion, reflecting the international character of the festival and the shared enthusiasm for cultural cooperation.

The nomination marked an important milestone for the Indo Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum, setting the stage for closer engagement between the two nations through cinema, art, media and education.

Costa Rican Ambassador Presented with Patronship of Indo-Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum at 19th Global Film Festival Noida

Costa Rican Ambassador Presented with Patronship of Indo-Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum at 19th Global Film Festival Noida

Noida: The Patronship of the Indo-Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum was formally presented to H.E. Nestor Gabriel Baltodano Vargas, Ambassador of Costa Rica, during the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026 at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City. The presentation marked a significant step in the newly launched Forum’s efforts to strengthen friendship between India and Costa Rica through cinema, art and culture.

The gesture received warm appreciation from the large audience and distinguished guests on stage, reflecting enthusiasm for closer cultural engagement between the two nations.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Global Film Festival Noida, said: “We are honoured to present the Patronship of the Indo-Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum to His Excellency. His guidance and encouragement will help us build meaningful connections between the people of our countries through film, creative education and cultural exchange.”

H.E. Nestor Gabriel Baltodano Vargas said: “I am pleased to receive this Patronship and welcome the Forum’s commitment to strengthening friendship between Costa Rica and India. Cinema and culture offer wonderful opportunities for our people to discover one another’s traditions, creativity and aspirations.”

The presentation took place in the presence of H.E. Hanisha Jairam, Ambassador of Suriname; R. S. Mishra, IAS; Jang Jong Hwan, Counsellor, Embassy of DPR Korea; Jimy Trujillo, Second Secretary, Embassy of Peru; Dr. Dilip Kumar Kowkonda, Founder of Hyderabad Smiles; Dr. Amit Behl, renowned actor; Aroon Bakshi, acclaimed actor and singer; Mehul Kumar, distinguished filmmaker and writer; Dipali Mathur Tayal, Miss Universe Bharat; and Anoop Lather, actor and Chairperson, Culture Council & PRO, University of Delhi.

The Forum aims to encourage interaction among filmmakers, artists, students and cultural institutions, creating opportunities for shared programmes and creative collaboration.

The ceremony reaffirmed the festival’s commitment to cultural diplomacy and Dr. Marwah’s guiding message of “Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture.”

Indo-Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum Launched at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Indo-Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum Launched at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Noida: A new chapter in cultural cooperation between India and Costa Rica opened with the grand launch of the Indo-Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum during the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026 at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City. The occasion brought together diplomats, filmmakers, artists and educationists to celebrate the potential of cinema and culture to strengthen international friendship.

H.E. Nestor Gabriel Baltodano Vargas, Ambassador of Costa Rica, welcomed the initiative, noting that diplomatic relations between India and Costa Rica date back to 1970. He described the Forum as the first association of its kind dedicated to bringing the two countries closer through film and cultural engagement.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Global Film Festival Noida, described the launch as a landmark initiative aimed at developing and promoting relations between the people of India and Costa Rica. He emphasised that cinema, art and cultural exchange can create lasting connections, encourage mutual understanding and open opportunities for creative collaboration.

The Forum’s launch established a platform to explore film screenings, cultural programmes, educational interaction and exchanges among artists, filmmakers and students from both countries.

The ceremony took place in the distinguished presence of H.E. Hanisha Jairam, Ambassador of Suriname; R. S. Mishra, IAS; Jang Jong Hwan, Counsellor, Embassy of DPR Korea; Jimy Trujillo, Second Secretary, Embassy of Peru; Dr. Dilip Kumar Kowkonda, Founder of Hyderabad Smiles; Dr. Amit Behl, renowned actor; Aroon Bakshi, acclaimed actor and singer; Mehul Kumar, distinguished filmmaker and writer; Dipali Mathur Tayal, Miss Universe Bharat; and Anoop Lather, actor and Chairperson, Culture Council & PRO, University of Delhi.

The presence of representatives from several countries alongside leading creative professionals gave the launch an international dimension and reinforced the festival’s role in encouraging cultural dialogue.

Guided by Dr. Marwah’s message of “Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture,” the Indo-Costa Rica Film and Cultural Forum will seek to translate shared goodwill into meaningful connections between the people and creative communities of both nations.

Cinema, Technology and Ethics Take Centre Stage at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Cinema, Technology and Ethics Take Centre Stage at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Noida: The third-session seminar of the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026, held at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City, brought together diplomats, actors, filmmakers and professionals for a discussion on “Artificial Intelligence in Cinema—Creativity, Technology and Ethics.” Each participant shared a perspective on the role of AI in shaping the future of creative expression.

Initiating the discussion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of GFFN, emphasised the importance of balancing innovation with responsibility.Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President, GFFN: “Artificial intelligence should expand the possibilities of cinema while preserving human imagination, artistic dignity and ethical responsibility.”

H.E. Nestor Gabriel Baltodano Vargas, Ambassador of Costa Rica: “AI can encourage international creative collaboration when its use respects cultural diversity and the rights of creators.”

H.E. Hanisha Jairam, Ambassador of Suriname: “As cinema embraces artificial intelligence, we must ensure that diverse cultures and smaller communities retain their authentic voices.”

R. S. Mishra, IAS: “Clear safeguards and accountability are essential to encourage innovation while protecting society from the misuse of artificial intelligence.”

Jang Jong Hwan, Counsellor, Embassy of DPR Korea: “Technological advancement in cinema should serve meaningful storytelling and promote a deeper understanding of people and cultures.”

Jimy Trujillo, Second Secretary, Embassy of Peru: “Artificial intelligence offers opportunities to share cultural heritage through cinema, provided authenticity and respect remain central.”

Dr. Dilip Kumar Kowkonda, Founder, Hyderabad Smiles: “Across healthcare and cinema, artificial intelligence delivers its greatest value when guided by human expertise and responsible judgement.”

Dr. Amit Behl, Actor: “An actor’s voice, likeness and performance must be protected through informed consent whenever artificial intelligence is used.”

Aroon Bakshi, Actor and Singer: “AI can support experimentation in music and cinema, but the identity and rights of singers and performers must be respected.”

Mehul Kumar, Filmmaker and Writer: “Artificial intelligence can assist filmmaking, but the emotional truth of a story depends on the vision and judgement of its creators.”

Dipali Mathur Tayal, Miss Universe Bharat: “Responsible AI should encourage inclusive representation and protect individuals from manipulated images and misleading portrayals.”

Anoop Lather, Actor and Chairperson, Culture Council & PRO, University of Delhi: “Creative education must equip young people with both AI skills and the ethical understanding needed to use them responsibly.”

The seminar connected technological possibilities with questions of authorship, consent, cultural representation and artistic integrity. The range of perspectives highlighted the need for dialogue among creators, educators, institutions and policymakers as AI becomes more closely integrated into cinema.

The session reinforced the festival’s commitment to examining emerging developments in filmmaking and encouraging innovation grounded in respect for human creativity.