MEDIA NEWS

Saturday, October 17, 2026

Eminent Personalities from Cinema, Diplomacy, Politics and Media Inaugurate New Session at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Noida, India: The new academic session of the Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT) was inaugurated during the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026 at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida, in the presence of an illustrious gathering of political leaders, diplomats, renowned filmmakers, actors, photographers, entrepreneurs, and media professionals from India and abroad.

The distinguished personalities who graced the occasion included Shri Tirath Singh Rawat, former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand and National Vice President of the Bharatiya Janata Party; Padma Shri Naresh Bedi, renowned filmmaker and wildlife photographer; H.E. Mr. Fernando Xavier Bucheli Vargas, Ambassador of Ecuador to India; H.E. Mr. Alonso Correa Miguel, Ambassador of Panama to India; Rakesh Bedi, renowned actor; Aanand Mahendroo, screenwriter, director and producer; Shashi Ranjan, film producer and director; Vaibhav Maitrey, Vice President of Media at Home and Soul; Veronika Huseynli, President of Beauty Queen of the Universe Company, UAE; Pankuj Parashar, renowned filmmaker; Judson Wendell Andy, Liberian-American entrepreneur, business leader and policy advocate from the USA; S. N. Sinha, renowned photojournalist; Alieu M. Massaquoi, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Liberia; and Jagmohan Anand, renowned sound designer.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of AAFT, President of Marwah Studios, and Founder of Noida Film City, said, “The inauguration of a new academic session in the presence of such eminent personalities is a matter of great pride for AAFT. Our objective is to bring the film and media industry directly to our students, enabling them to learn from the experiences of distinguished professionals, understand the realities of the creative world, and prepare themselves for successful careers. The Global Film Festival Noida is an ideal platform to connect education, cinema, culture, and international cooperation.”

The dignitaries shared their experiences, professional journeys, and perspectives on cinema, creativity, technology, storytelling, and the evolving media and entertainment industry.

Key Messages from the Distinguished Speakers

Shri Tirath Singh Rawat: Emphasised the role of cinema in reflecting India’s cultural values, inspiring society, and connecting people across regions and communities.
Padma Shri Naresh Bedi: Highlighted the importance of wildlife filmmaking and photography in documenting nature, promoting environmental awareness, and preserving biodiversity for future generations.
H.E. Mr. Fernando Xavier Bucheli Vargas: Spoke about the potential of cinema and cultural exchange to strengthen friendship and cooperation between India and Ecuador.
H.E. Mr. Alonso Correa Miguel: Emphasised how films and cultural initiatives can bring India and Panama closer by showcasing their traditions, creativity, and shared human experiences.
Rakesh Bedi: Shared insights from his acting career and stressed the importance of observation, versatility, timing, and continuous learning in developing as an actor.
Aanand Mahendroo: Discussed the importance of strong writing, engaging characters, and well-developed narratives in creating memorable films and television productions.
Shashi Ranjan: Spoke about the practical realities of film production and the importance of discipline, teamwork, and understanding the industry beyond the classroom.
Vaibhav Maitrey: Highlighted the role of media in shaping contemporary lifestyles and the growing importance of innovative content, communication, and digital platforms.
Veronika Huseynli: Spoke about the relationship between beauty, fashion, media, and personal expression, highlighting opportunities for young talent on international platforms.
Pankuj Parashar: Shared his filmmaking experiences and encouraged students to develop original ideas, experiment creatively, and cultivate a distinctive cinematic vision.
Judson Wendell Andy: Emphasised the potential of the creative industries to generate entrepreneurship, employment, and international business opportunities.
S. N. Sinha: Explained the power of photojournalism in documenting history, capturing important moments, and communicating compelling stories through images.
Alieu M. Massaquoi: Highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy and international engagement in building mutual understanding and stronger relationships among nations.
Jagmohan Anand: Shared insights into the art and science of sound design, stressing that sound, ambience, and music are essential elements in creating an immersive cinematic experience.

The interaction provided students with a valuable opportunity to listen to accomplished professionals, gain insights into diverse creative careers, and understand the opportunities and responsibilities associated with working in the media and entertainment industry.

The inauguration reaffirmed AAFT’s commitment to industry-oriented education, practical learning, and international exposure. The presence of distinguished guests from different professional backgrounds added immense value to the new academic session and reinforced the institution’s philosophy of “Transforming Passion to Profession.”

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to nurturing future filmmakers, actors, writers, photographers, sound designers, and media entrepreneurs who can contribute to the growth of Indian cinema and the global creative economy.

Authentic Cuisine of Panama Showcased at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Noida, India: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), in association with the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism, presented the authentic cuisine of Panama at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026, held at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida. The initiative was organised to promote international culture, culinary diversity, and friendship among nations through food and hospitality.

The special culinary presentation was inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Alonso Correa Miguel, Ambassador of Panama to India, in the presence of guests, festival delegates, media professionals, academicians, and students.

The presentation offered visitors an opportunity to experience the distinctive culinary traditions of Panama, a country whose food culture reflects a rich blend of indigenous, African, Spanish, and other international influences. The initiative highlighted how cuisine can serve as a meaningful expression of a nation’s identity, heritage, and way of life.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and ICMEI and Founder of Noida Film City, said, “Food is a universal language that connects people beyond geographical boundaries. Every country has its own culinary heritage, traditions, and flavours, which deserve to be shared and celebrated internationally. Through this initiative, we are bringing the culture of Panama closer to the people of India and creating new opportunities for cultural interaction, international friendship, and cooperation. We are committed to promoting global understanding through art, culture, cinema, education, and hospitality.”

H.E. Mr. Alonso Correa Miguel, Ambassador of Panama to India, appreciated the initiative taken by ICMEI and the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism to showcase Panamanian cuisine at an international film festival. He emphasised the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening relations between Panama and India and recognised food as an effective medium for introducing people to the traditions, heritage, and lifestyle of another country.

The presentation also provided students of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism with valuable exposure to international culinary traditions, reinforcing the importance of global perspectives in hospitality education.

The initiative formed part of the diverse cultural programmes at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026, demonstrating that international festivals can serve as platforms not only for cinema but also for culinary arts, cultural diplomacy, and people-to-people connections.

Through such programmes, ICMEI and AAFT continue to build bridges between nations and promote the philosophy of “Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture.”

Ecuadorian Cuisine Showcased at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Noida, India: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), in association with the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism, proudly presented the authentic cuisine of Ecuador as part of its ongoing initiative to promote international culture, culinary traditions, and global friendship through food and hospitality.

The special culinary presentation was inaugurated by H.E. Mr. Fernando Xavier Bucheli Vargas, Ambassador of Ecuador to India, at the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026, held at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida.

The presentation offered festival visitors an opportunity to discover the distinctive flavours and culinary heritage of Ecuador, highlighting the role of food as an important expression of a nation’s history, traditions, and cultural identity. The initiative also provided students of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism with valuable exposure to international cuisine and hospitality practices.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and ICMEI and Founder of Noida Film City, said, “Food is one of the most beautiful ways to understand a country’s culture and traditions. Through this initiative, we are bringing the culinary heritage of Ecuador closer to the people of India. At ICMEI and AAFT, we believe that cultural diplomacy extends beyond cinema and art to include food, hospitality, music, and the everyday traditions that connect people across borders. Such programmes strengthen international friendship and create opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange.”

H.E. Mr. Fernando Xavier Bucheli Vargas, Ambassador of Ecuador to India, appreciated the initiative and the efforts of ICMEI and the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism in presenting Ecuadorian cuisine on an international platform. He highlighted the importance of cultural exchange in bringing the people of India and Ecuador closer and expressed the value of introducing Ecuador’s culinary traditions to Indian audiences.

The presentation formed part of the wider cultural activities of the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026, which brought together filmmakers, artists, diplomats, academicians, media professionals, and international delegates to celebrate cinema and cultural diversity.

Through this initiative, ICMEI and AAFT reaffirmed their commitment to promoting international understanding and friendship through food, hospitality, and cultural diplomacy, in keeping with Dr. Sandeep Marwah’s guiding philosophy: “Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture.”

Dr. Manuel José Damásio, President of CILECT, Visits Marwah Studios and AAFT

Noida, India: Marwah Studios and the Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT) had the honour of welcoming Prof. Dr. Manuel José Damásio, President of CILECT (The International Association of Film and Media Schools), Associate Professor, and Head of the Film and Media Arts Department at Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal.

Dr. Damásio is a distinguished academic, researcher, and media professional who has made significant contributions to film and media education at the international level. His visit provided an important opportunity to exchange ideas on contemporary media education, filmmaking, research, technological innovation, and global academic collaboration.

Welcoming the distinguished guest, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, Founder of Noida Film City, and Founder-President of AAFT, said, “It is a matter of great pride and pleasure to welcome Prof. Dr. Manuel José Damásio to Marwah Studios and AAFT. His leadership of CILECT and his contribution to international film and media education make his visit particularly significant for our students, faculty, and the entire creative community. We believe that interaction between leading international educators will open new avenues for academic cooperation, student exchange, faculty development, research, and the sharing of best practices in film and media education.”

Dr. Marwah further emphasised that international cooperation is essential to preparing students for a rapidly changing media and entertainment industry. He highlighted AAFT’s commitment to practical, skill-based education and its efforts to build bridges between film schools, creative professionals, and cultural institutions across the world.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Dr. Manuel José Damásio appreciated the opportunity to visit Marwah Studios and interact with Dr. Sandeep Marwah. He highlighted the importance of strengthening connections among film and media schools, encouraging international academic dialogue, and preparing young professionals to respond to emerging developments in cinema, digital media, and creative technologies.

The meeting underscored the shared commitment of both institutions to advancing film and media education, encouraging creative innovation, and expanding international cooperation among educational institutions.

The visit marked a valuable moment in the continuing efforts of AAFT and Marwah Studios to strengthen their global academic relationships and promote excellence in film and media education.

The interaction reaffirmed the belief that education, creativity, and international collaboration are essential to shaping the future of the global media and entertainment industry.

Exhibition of Award-Winning Photographs Organised During 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026

Noida, India: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), in association with the AAFT School of Photography, organised an impressive exhibition of still photographs at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida, during the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026.

The exhibition showcased a remarkable collection of award-winning photographs, reflecting the creativity, technical excellence, artistic vision, and storytelling abilities of photographers. The display attracted a large number of visitors from different walks of life, including renowned filmmakers, cinema enthusiasts, film students, media professionals, and delegates attending the international festival.

The exhibition provided an excellent platform for students of the AAFT School of Photography to present their creative work before an international audience and gain valuable exposure to the professional world of photography. The displayed photographs highlighted the power of visual communication and the ability of a single image to capture emotions, experiences, and meaningful stories.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and ICMEI and Founder of Noida Film City, appreciated the efforts of the students and emphasised the importance of encouraging young talent.

Addressing the students, Dr. Marwah said, “Photography is an extraordinary medium of expression that allows you to communicate ideas, emotions, and stories without words. At AAFT, our objective is not only to impart professional education but also to motivate and encourage students to showcase their talent on international platforms. Exhibitions like these build confidence, inspire creativity, and prepare young photographers to meet the challenges of the professional world. I am proud to see our students presenting their work before such a distinguished audience during the Global Film Festival Noida.”

He further emphasised that the Global Film Festival Noida provides students with valuable opportunities to interact with established filmmakers, creative professionals, and international delegates, helping them broaden their perspectives and develop their professional skills.

The photography exhibition added another significant creative dimension to the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026, reaffirming the festival’s commitment to promoting emerging talent, visual arts, media education, and cultural exchange.

Through such initiatives, ICMEI and the AAFT School of Photography continue to encourage young photographers to transform their passion into a profession and contribute meaningfully to the growing global photography and media industry.

The exhibition reflected the AAFT philosophy of “Transforming Passion to Profession” and the commitment of Marwah Studios to nurturing the next generation of creative professionals.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah Meets Ambassador of Ecuador to Strengthen India–Ecuador Cultural Relations

New Delhi: Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, Founder of Noida Film City, and President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), had a wonderful meeting with H.E. Mr. Fernando Xavier Bucheli Vargas, Ambassador of Ecuador to India, at the Embassy of Ecuador.

During the meeting, Dr. Marwah presented His Excellency with a beautiful piece of artwork created by a talented student of the AAFT School of Photography. The thoughtful gesture reflected the creativity of young Indian artists and symbolised friendship, mutual respect, and the growing possibilities of cultural cooperation between India and Ecuador.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sandeep Marwah said, “Art and culture are powerful instruments of bringing nations and people closer together. Through this beautiful creation by an AAFT student, we wish to convey our warm friendship and our commitment to strengthening cultural relations between India and Ecuador. Such interactions open new avenues for collaboration in cinema, photography, education, art, and cultural exchange.”

H.E. Mr. Fernando Xavier Bucheli Vargas appreciated the gesture and the artistic talent of the AAFT student. He highlighted the importance of cultural interaction and people-to-people connections in bringing India and Ecuador closer and creating opportunities for greater cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting reaffirmed the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international friendship and building bridges between nations through creativity, education, and the arts.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah reiterated his commitment to promoting international relations through art, culture, cinema, and media under the guiding philosophy of “Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture.”

Friday, October 16, 2026

Dr. Sandeep Marwah Highlights Global Reach and Unprecedented Diversity of 19th Global Film Festival Noida

Noida, India: With great enthusiasm and excitement, Rtn. Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026, addressed an international gathering on the third day of the festival during its fifth major session at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida. He highlighted the festival’s international reach, remarkable diversity of activities, and commitment to bringing the world together through cinema, art, culture, and education.

Addressing the international audience, Dr. Marwah explained that the Global Film Festival Noida has grown into a major international platform, bringing together participants and creative communities from nearly 100 countries under one umbrella. With more than 52 events organised over three days, the festival presented a wide spectrum of cinematic, cultural, educational, and artistic activities.

Dr. Marwah said, “The strength of the Global Film Festival Noida lies in its diversity, international participation, and the extraordinary range of activities that take place under one roof. We have brought together nearly 100 countries and organised more than 52 events in just three days. Our objective is to create a platform where people from different nations, cultures, and creative backgrounds can meet, exchange ideas, appreciate one another’s work, and build lasting relationships through cinema and culture.”

He explained that the festival encompasses several major segments, including international cinema, Indian cinema, films on disability, children’s films, short films, and retrospectives celebrating distinguished filmmakers. The programme also features musical shows, painting and photography exhibitions, garment and communication exhibitions, short plays, book and poster releases, and celebrations of important national and international days.

According to Dr. Marwah, this broad spectrum of activities makes the festival much more than a conventional film screening event. It provides opportunities for filmmakers, actors, artists, photographers, designers, writers, students, media professionals, and international delegates to interact, showcase their talent, and explore new avenues of collaboration.

He further highlighted the festival’s substantial international footfall and vibrant atmosphere, which bring together creative minds from across the globe. The participation of diverse communities and the integration of multiple art forms contribute to the festival’s distinctive identity as a meeting point for cinema, cultural diplomacy, creative education, and international friendship.

Dr. Marwah also referred to the festival’s efforts to gain international recognition for its scale and diversity. He stated that representations had been submitted to the World Book of Records, London, on several occasions, and expressed hope that the festival’s achievements would receive favourable consideration this time. The recognition remains subject to the organisation’s evaluation and approval.

The 19th Global Film Festival Noida 2026, held at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida, continues to advance the vision of connecting nations and communities through creative expression. Under Dr. Sandeep Marwah’s leadership, the festival seeks to strengthen international cultural relations, encourage emerging talent, and promote the universal language of cinema.

Concluding his address, Dr. Marwah reaffirmed that the festival’s greatest strength lies in its ability to unite people beyond geographical and cultural boundaries.

“Our mission is to connect the world through cinema, art, and culture. The Global Film Festival Noida is a celebration of international friendship, creativity, and the spirit of unity,” he said.

The festival continues to uphold its guiding philosophy: “Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture.”