Sunday, February 1, 2026

TEDxAAFT Grand Show Enthralls Audience at Marwah Studios

TEDxAAFT Grand Show Enthralls Audience at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: The campus of Marwah Studios came alive with ideas, creativity, and performance during the grand TEDxAAFT show, a vibrant intellectual and cultural celebration organized by the students of AAFT for the students of AAFT. The event beautifully blended music, dance, storytelling, animation, literature, and inspirational talks, creating a powerful platform for learning and expression.

The show was inaugurated by Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT, along with Dr Manoj Agarwal, Campus Director, and Seema Bedi, Director CRC, AAFT.

A major highlight of the evening was the mesmerizing Sarod & Sitar Jugalbandi by the internationally acclaimed Lakshay Mohan and Aayush Mohan, popularly known as the Mohan Brothers, who captivated the audience with their musical brilliance.

The TEDxAAFT stage also featured a series of thought-provoking talks and performances by an exceptional lineup of speakers and artistes, including historian and author Vikramjit Singh Rooprai, entrepreneur Jai Chachra, singer and spiritual performer Abhilipsa Panda, renowned Kathak danseuse Sneha Bajaj, celebrated animation filmmaker Vaibhav Kumaresh, young author Rthvik Singh, and popular Bollywood playback singer Shibani Kashyap.

In addition to the distinguished speakers, AAFT students themselves presented performances and creative expressions, making the event a truly inclusive celebration of talent, ideas, and innovation.

While inaugurating the show, Dr Sandeep Marwah said that TEDxAAFT reflects the true spirit of AAFT—where education goes beyond classrooms and encourages students to think independently, express creatively, and engage with diverse forms of knowledge. He emphasized that music, dance, dialogue, and ideas together shape responsible global citizens and future leaders of the creative industry.

The TEDxAAFT Grand Show stood out as a dynamic confluence of music, movement, ideas, and inspiration, leaving the audience enriched, motivated, and proud of the creative energy fostered at AAFT.

AAFT School of Fine Arts Presents Painting to Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi Representing the Film Industry

AAFT School of Fine Arts Presents Painting to Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi Representing the Film Industry

Noida, India: The AAFT School of Fine Arts presented a specially created painting to Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, former Union Minister, as a mark of respect and recognition for his contribution and association with the film and creative industries. The presentation took place at Marwah Studios in the presence of distinguished guests, artists, faculty members, and students on his visit to 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema.

The artwork, conceptualized and executed by the talented students of the AAFT School of Fine Arts, symbolically represented the spirit, influence, and cultural depth of the Indian film industry. The painting reflected creativity, cinematic expression, and artistic excellence, highlighting the strong connection between visual arts and cinema.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT, said that art and cinema are deeply interconnected mediums that shape society, culture, and thought. He expressed pride in the students for creating a meaningful artwork and stated that AAFT continuously encourages young artists to engage with national institutions and leaders through creative expression.

Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, while accepting the painting, appreciated the creativity and skill of the students. He applauded AAFT for nurturing artistic talent and for its significant role in strengthening India’s position in the global creative and film ecosystem. He remarked that such initiatives motivate young artists and reinforce the importance of art as a powerful voice of cultural representation.

The presentation stood as a symbolic gesture of respect from the AAFT School of Fine Arts to a distinguished national leader, reaffirming AAFT’s commitment to promoting art, cinema, and creative excellence at both national and international levels.

Painting Exhibition Paying Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi Inaugurated During 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema

Painting Exhibition Paying Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi Inaugurated During 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema

Noida, India: A soulful and visually powerful Painting Exhibition was inaugurated at Marwah Studios on the occasion of the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, showcasing inspiring artworks created by the students of the AAFT School of Fine Arts in association with Mahatma Gandhi Forum.

Marking the significance of 30th January, the day observed as Martyrs’ Day, the exhibition was presented as a heartfelt tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. All the paintings displayed in the exhibition were either direct portraits of Mahatma Gandhi or thematically connected to his life, ideology, philosophy of non-violence, truth, and global human values. The artworks reflected deep sensitivity, historical understanding, and creative excellence by the young artists.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Chancellor of AAFT, spoke about the vision and growing impact of the AAFT School of Fine Arts. He emphasized that art plays a vital role in preserving history, shaping values, and inspiring generations. He further added that Gandhian philosophy continues to be a powerful source of inspiration for creative minds across the world, and the students have beautifully expressed these timeless ideals through their paintings.

Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi appreciated the exhibition and applauded the students for presenting Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy with such depth and artistic maturity. He stated that art has the unique power to connect generations and cultures, and exhibitions like this help keep the spirit of Gandhi alive in contemporary society.

The grand inauguration was witnessed by a large number of distinguished guests, art lovers, faculty members, and enthusiastic art students, who admired the creativity, thoughtfulness, and emotional strength of the artworks on display.

The exhibition added a meaningful and reflective dimension to the celebrations of the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, reaffirming the commitment of Marwah Studios and AAFT to promoting art, culture, and the enduring values of peace and humanity.

Poster Launched to Invite Global Entries for the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema

Poster Launched to Invite Global Entries for the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema

Noida, India: The official poster inviting film entries from across the globe for the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema (IFCFC) was ceremoniously launched at Marwah Studios, setting the stage for yet another landmark edition of the world’s pioneering mobile film festival.

The poster was unveiled by Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Former Union Minister, in the esteemed presence of Gopal Jiwarjka, CMD of Salora International; renowned actor Abhinav Chaturvedi; senior journalist and Editor of AfroAsian Business Chronicle, Renu Malhotra; and Dr Diwakar Sukul.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, announced the formal opening of submissions for the 19th edition. He highlighted the phenomenal global response to the previous edition, which received over 8,000 entries from filmmakers across the world, reaffirming the festival’s growing international stature and relevance.

Dr Marwah emphasized that the festival continues to provide a powerful and democratic platform for filmmakers to showcase their creativity using mobile phones and new-age technologies, making cinema accessible beyond conventional boundaries. He added that IFCFC has emerged as a global movement, inspiring storytellers from diverse cultures, age groups, and backgrounds.

Former Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi applauded the vision behind the festival and appreciated its role in nurturing innovation and encouraging young and independent filmmakers worldwide. Other dignitaries also lauded the initiative, describing IFCFC as a trendsetter that has redefined filmmaking in the digital era.

The launch of the poster marked the beginning of global outreach for the 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, inviting filmmakers from every corner of the world to be part of this unique celebration of creativity, technology, and storytelling.

Awards Ceremony of the 18th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema Held at Marwah Studios

Awards Ceremony of the 18th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema Held at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: The Awards Ceremony of the 18th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema was held with great enthusiasm and a packed auditorium at Marwah Studios, celebrating innovation, creativity, and the evolving language of cinema. The prestigious awards were presented by Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Former Union Minister, in the distinguished presence of eminent personalities from industry, media, cinema, and literature.

The ceremony was graced by Gopal Jiwarjka, CMD of Salora International; renowned actor Abhinav Chaturvedi; senior journalist and Editor of AfroAsian Business Chronicle, Renu Malhotra; and Dr Diwakar Sukul.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and President of Marwah Studios, informed that the festival received an overwhelming 8,000 entries from across the world. The submissions spanned multiple categories including still photography, music videos, documentaries, and fiction films, created both on mobile phones and through Artificial Intelligence. He emphasized that the International Festival of Cellphone Cinema proudly holds the distinction of being the first-ever festival of cellphone cinema in the world, and also the first international festival dedicated to films made using Artificial Intelligence.

While presenting the awards, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi congratulated all the award winners and appreciated the vision behind the festival. He applauded the initiative for opening new doors for filmmakers by embracing technology and innovation, and personally presented trophies and cash prizes to the deserving awardees.

The audience witnessed an extraordinary cinematic experience as the award-winning films were screened on the big screen in the auditorium. The house-full audience was visibly surprised and impressed by the technical quality, storytelling depth, and creative excellence achieved through mobile phones and AI-driven filmmaking.

The 18th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema once again reinforced its global reputation as a pioneering platform that democratizes cinema, encourages experimentation, and celebrates the future of filmmaking through technology-driven creativity.

19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema Grandly Inaugurated at Marwah Studios

19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema Grandly Inaugurated at Marwah Studios

Noida, India: The 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema was inaugurated with great enthusiasm and global spirit at Marwah Studios, marking another historic milestone in the journey of mobile filmmaking. The prestigious festival was inaugurated by Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Senior Member of the Bharatiya Janata Party and former Union Minister, in the distinguished presence of eminent personalities from the worlds of cinema, media, industry, and literature.

The august gathering included Gopal Jiwarjka, CMD of Salora International; renowned actor Abhinav Chaturvedi; senior journalist and Editor of AfroAsian Business Chronicle”], Renu Malhotra; and Dr Diwakar Sukul from London.

Addressing the audience, Dr Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and President of Marwah Studios, spoke passionately about the extraordinary journey of the International Festival of Cellphone Cinema. He shared how the movement of mobile filmmaking grew from a bold experiment into a global phenomenon, earning him the internationally acknowledged title of “Father of Cellphone Cinema.” Dr Marwah emphasized that this festival is recognized as the first-ever international festival of mobile films in the world, setting benchmarks in innovation, accessibility, and creative freedom.

While reflecting on the global evolution of cellphone cinema, Dr Marwah fondly remembered the invaluable contribution of Prof. Karl Bardosh, whose vision and academic support helped bring worldwide recognition to the genre. He further highlighted that the festival has successfully travelled to prestigious global platforms including Budapest, Hungary and Cannes, France, reinforcing its truly international stature.

This year’s edition witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 8,000 film entries from across the globe for 18th edition of IFCFC. A total of 22 awards, along with attractive cash prizes, were presented to celebrate excellence, originality, and innovation in mobile filmmaking for 18th edition participants.

Speaking on the occasion, Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi praised Dr Sandeep Marwah, stating, “Dr Sandeep Marwah is a truly creative, innovative, and legendary personality in his field. Noida Film City, Marwah Studios, and AAFT have today become international brands. He is among the most decorated personalities of the country. Mobile has brought revolution in journalism, in cinema and in our day to day affaires.”

Renowned actor Abhinav Chaturvedi lauded the festival for democratizing cinema and empowering young creators with a simple yet powerful tool—the mobile phone—while appreciating Dr Marwah’s vision of nurturing new talent worldwide.

Senior journalist Renu Malhotra highlighted the global impact of the festival, noting that cellphone cinema has emerged as a strong voice for inclusive storytelling and cross-cultural dialogue.

From London, Dr Diwakar Sukul commended the festival for its originality and international outreach, describing it as a historic platform that has reshaped the future of filmmaking and inspired creators across continents.

The 19th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema once again reaffirmed its position as a pioneering global platform, celebrating creativity without boundaries and reinforcing India’s leadership in innovative cinematic movements.