GREAT FILM MAKER PEHLAJ NIHALANI REMEMBERED AT AAFT

                   GREAT FILM MAKER PEHLAJ NIHALANI REMEMBERED AT AAFT

Noida Film City: The faculty, students, and management of the Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT) paid tribute to the late Pehlaj Nihalani, one of the most distinguished personalities of the Indian film industry, remembering his immense contribution to cinema and media education.

Pehlaj Nihalani was a renowned Indian film producer who served as the Chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. He also held the prestigious position of President of the Association of Pictures and TV Programme Producers for an impressive 29 years, playing a significant role in strengthening the Indian entertainment industry.

Nihalani had a long and cordial association with AAFT and served on its Board as an Advisor. During his tenure, he visited the AAFT campus on several occasions, sharing his vast experience and knowledge with students and young filmmakers.

Recalling his association with the veteran filmmaker, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Chancellor of AAFT, expressed deep admiration and respect for Pehlaj Nihalani. “Pehlaj Nihalani was not only a capable filmmaker and an influential leader of the film fraternity, but also an excellent human being. His visits to Marwah Studios at Noida Film City were always inspiring. He carried immense wisdom, warmth, and affection for young talent. His contribution to Indian cinema and media education will always be remembered,” said Dr. Marwah.

The AAFT fraternity acknowledged Nihalani’s dedication to the growth of Indian cinema and his unwavering support for nurturing future generations of media professionals. His legacy will continue to inspire filmmakers, artists, and students across the country.

The institution observed a moment of remembrance in his honor and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and admirers throughout the film industry.

AAFT Becomes First Media Institutions in India to Offer Comprehensive OB Van Training

AAFT Becomes First Media Institutions in India to Offer Comprehensive OB Van Training

Noida: The Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT) continues to strengthen its position as a pioneer in media education by providing specialized training on Outside Broadcasting (OB) Van operations to students of its Department of Cinema and Department of Journalism, without any additional cost.

The advanced hands-on training equips students with the practical skills required for multi-camera productions and live event broadcasting, opening up exciting career opportunities in the rapidly expanding media and broadcast industry.

Students undergoing OB Van training at AAFT gain real-world experience in managing live broadcasts of major national and international events, including sports tournaments, award ceremonies, national parades, cultural festivals, satellite launches, and large-scale public events. The training enables them to understand the complexities of live production, camera coordination, vision mixing, sound management, and broadcast transmission.

“AAFT has always believed in providing industry-oriented education that prepares students for the future. Our investment in advanced equipment and a fully functional OB Van reflects our commitment to excellence in practical training,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT.

“Live broadcasting is one of the most specialized and demanding segments of the media industry. By offering comprehensive OB Van training, we are ensuring that our students are equipped with the latest technical skills and are ready to contribute effectively to the industry from day one. We want trained human resources to be available for this fast-growing and technologically advanced sector,” he added.

The institution has made substantial investments in state-of-the-art broadcasting infrastructure, enabling students to gain hands-on experience on professional equipment that mirrors industry standards. This unique educational approach gives AAFT students a competitive advantage and significantly enhances their employability in television networks, sports broadcasting, event coverage, digital media platforms, and live production companies.

For over three decades, AAFT has remained committed to innovation in education, continuously introducing cutting-edge technologies and practical learning opportunities that bridge the gap between academia and industry.

With this initiative, AAFT once again reinforces its reputation as a trendsetter in media and entertainment education, creating highly skilled professionals ready to meet the evolving demands of the global broadcasting industry.

ICMEI Congratulates Ambassador Jan Thesleff and the People of Sweden on National Day

ICMEI Congratulates Ambassador Jan Thesleff and the People of Sweden on National Day

Noida, India: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) extends its heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency Jan Thesleff, Ambassador of Sweden to India, and to the people of Sweden on the occasion of the National Day of Sweden, celebrated on 6th June.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of ICMEI and Chair of the Indo Sweden Film and Cultural Forum, conveyed his warm greetings and best wishes to the Government and citizens of Sweden on this important national occasion.

“India and Sweden enjoy excellent bilateral relations founded on mutual respect, innovation, sustainability, and cultural understanding. Over the years, the relationship between our two countries has grown stronger through cooperation in trade, education, technology, culture, and creative industries,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah.

Dr. Marwah emphasized that ICMEI, through its Indo Sweden Film and Cultural Forum, has been actively promoting people-to-people contacts and cultural exchanges between India and Sweden. The forum has continuously worked to strengthen friendship and cooperation through films, media, art, culture, education, and tourism.

“Cultural diplomacy plays a vital role in bringing nations closer. We remain committed to further enhancing the bonds between India and Sweden through meaningful cultural and artistic initiatives,” added Dr. Marwah.

ICMEI wishes the people of Sweden continued peace, prosperity, progress, and success on their National Day and looks forward to further strengthening the enduring friendship between the two nations.

ICMEI Extends Congratulations to Italy on Republic Day

ICMEI Extends Congratulations to Italy on Republic Day

Noida, India: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) extends its warmest congratulations to His Excellency Antonio Bartoli, Ambassador of Italy to India, and to the people of Italy on the auspicious occasion of the Republic Day of Italy, celebrated annually on 2nd June.

On behalf of the Indo Italy Film and Cultural Forum of ICMEI, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of ICMEI and Chair of the Forum, conveyed his best wishes to the Government and citizens of Italy. He highlighted the strong and growing cultural, artistic, and people-to-people relations between India and Italy, which continue to flourish through meaningful exchanges and collaborative initiatives.

“The Indo Italy Film and Cultural Forum of ICMEI has always remained a proactive platform dedicated to strengthening bilateral relations through art, culture, media, cinema, education, and tourism. Italy occupies a special place in the global cultural landscape, and we are proud to contribute towards bringing our two nations closer,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah.

Dr. Marwah further noted that his several visits to Italy over the years have significantly enhanced mutual understanding and opened new avenues of cooperation between the creative communities of both countries. These interactions have helped elevate cultural diplomacy to new heights and have reinforced the friendship between India and Italy.

The Indo Italy Film and Cultural Forum remains committed to organizing programs, festivals, exhibitions, seminars, and cultural exchanges that promote stronger ties and greater collaboration between the two friendly nations.

ICMEI wishes Italy continued progress, prosperity, peace, and success on this proud national occasion.

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AAFT Introduces Prestigious Awards for Short Films at the Historic 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films

AAFT Introduces Prestigious Awards for Short Films at the Historic 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films

Noida, India: In a landmark initiative aimed at recognizing and encouraging emerging cinematic talent, the Asian Academy of Film & Television (AAFT) has announced the introduction of the AAFT Awards for Short Films during the 128th AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City.

For the first time in the history of the festival, outstanding young filmmakers will be formally honored for their exceptional creative achievements during their academic journey at AAFT. The awards have been specially designed to motivate, inspire, and celebrate the next generation of storytellers and content creators who have demonstrated excellence in filmmaking.

The awards will be presented in two major categories of visual entertainment: Fiction Films and Music Videos, recognizing originality, artistic expression, technical excellence, and impactful storytelling.

Announcing the initiative, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT, President of Marwah Studios, Vice President of the Film Federation of India, and President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), stated:

“The AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films has created a unique place in the global film education ecosystem. We hold the distinction of organizing the world’s most consistent and extensive festival dedicated to student cinema. With the 128th edition, we are proud to introduce the AAFT Awards for Short Films to formally recognize and encourage the extraordinary efforts of young filmmakers.”

Dr. Marwah further emphasized the unparalleled achievements of the festival: “AAFT has established a remarkable world record by organizing 128 editions of this exclusive festival. It is perhaps the only festival of its kind that is conducted four times a year, providing continuous opportunities for emerging talent. More than 3,000 directors have premiered their debut films through this platform, making it one of the most significant launchpads for young filmmakers anywhere in the world.”

Over the years, the AAFT Festival of Short Digital Films has become an internationally respected platform that nurtures creativity, innovation, and professional excellence. The festival has consistently encouraged students to experiment with new ideas, explore diverse themes, and develop their cinematic voice while receiving exposure before distinguished juries, industry professionals, and global audiences.

The introduction of the AAFT Awards marks a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to fostering excellence in film education and promoting emerging talent on a global stage. The awards are expected to further strengthen AAFT’s mission of creating future leaders in cinema, television, and digital media.

As the 128th edition approaches, filmmakers, media professionals, and cinema enthusiasts eagerly await another celebration of creativity, innovation, and cinematic excellence at Marwah Studios—the home of one of the world’s most enduring and influential student film festivals.

CineKind National Awards Promotional Film Receives Global Acclaim for Championing Animal Welfare in Cinema

CineKind National Awards Promotional Film Receives Global Acclaim for Championing Animal Welfare in Cinema

Noida, India: The official introductory and promotional film of the prestigious CineKind National Awards, an innovative initiative of the Film Federation of India (FFI) in association with People for Animals, has garnered widespread appreciation from film professionals, animal welfare advocates, and audiences across India and abroad.

Conceptualized under the leadership of Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, Vice President of the Film Federation of India, and Chairman of the CineKind National Awards Committee, the four-minute film has emerged as a powerful cinematic statement advocating compassion, sensitivity, and responsible representation of animals in the entertainment industry.

The CineKind National Awards are the first awards of their kind in India at the national level, instituted to recognize and encourage filmmakers, artists, and technicians who promote kindness, ethical treatment, and concern for animals through cinema. The initiative seeks to inspire the creative community to integrate empathy and animal welfare into storytelling and film production practices.

Produced by Marwah Studios, the promotional film beautifully captures the emotional world of animals and highlights the often-overlooked bond between humans and non-speaking creatures. Through compelling visuals and heartfelt narration, the film reminds viewers that animals too experience emotions, affection, fear, pain, and companionship. The presentation evokes a strong emotional response and encourages society to view animals with greater understanding and respect.

“The objective of CineKind is not merely to present awards but to initiate a movement of compassion within the cinematic fraternity. Cinema has the power to influence millions, and through this platform we wish to create awareness about the dignity, protection, and welfare of animals,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah.

The film was officially released during a grand ceremony at the Global Film Festival Noida held at Marwah Studios, in the presence of eminent personalities from the film, television, media, and cultural sectors. Since its release, the film has received enthusiastic appreciation from national and international audiences for its meaningful message and artistic presentation.

Industry observers have described the initiative as a landmark step towards aligning the entertainment sector with global humanitarian and animal welfare values. The CineKind National Awards have already begun creating awareness among filmmakers and encouraging more responsible and compassionate content creation.

As the movement continues to gain momentum, CineKind is poised to become a significant global platform promoting ethical filmmaking and reinforcing the universal message that kindness towards animals is an essential measure of a civilized society.

“Compassion is the highest form of humanity, and CineKind is dedicated to bringing this spirit to the forefront of world cinema,” concluded Dr. Sandeep Marwah.

ICMEI and AAFT Celebrate World Environment Day with Poster Launch at Marwah Studios

ICMEI and AAFT Celebrate World Environment Day with Poster Launch at Marwah Studios

Noida: Reinforcing its commitment to environmental awareness and sustainable development, the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), in association with AAFT, celebrated World Environment Day with great enthusiasm at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida. The event brought together students, media professionals, environmental enthusiasts, and members of the creative community to highlight the urgent need for environmental conservation and collective action.

A specially designed poster dedicated to World Environment Day was officially launched during the celebration, symbolizing the organization’s pledge to promote environmental responsibility and inspire positive action towards protecting the planet.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT, Founder of Noida Film City, and President of ICMEI, emphasized the critical role of individuals and institutions in preserving nature.

“World Environment Day is not just a reminder but a call to action. The future of humanity depends on the choices we make today. Every tree we plant, every resource we conserve, and every effort we make towards sustainability contributes to a healthier and greener planet. Through media, education, and creative arts, we have a powerful responsibility to spread awareness and encourage environmental stewardship,” said Dr. Marwah.

He further added that environmental protection must become a way of life and that educational institutions have a special role in nurturing environmentally conscious citizens who can lead sustainable development initiatives in the future.

The poster launch served as a powerful message advocating climate awareness, biodiversity conservation, pollution reduction, and responsible consumption. Participants pledged to support environmental causes and adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.

The celebration reflected AAFT and ICMEI’s continued dedication to social responsibility and their belief that media and education can be effective tools in driving meaningful environmental change. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to creating awareness and encouraging collective efforts toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world.

“Protecting the environment is not an option; it is our shared responsibility and our greatest investment in the future.” – Dr. Sandeep Marwah