Month: August 2024

Noida, 21st August 2024 – Dr. Swapnil Rai, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Film, Television, and Media at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA, presented her newly published book “Networked Bollywood: How Star Power Globalized Hindi Cinema” to Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and Chancellor of AAFT University, in a special ceremony at Marwah Studios, Noida. The event was marked by a warm exchange of ideas and mutual admiration between the author and the celebrated media and film educationist.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah expressed his profound appreciation for Dr. Rai’s rigorous research and dedication to the project. “I am happy to be part of this journey. I remember how Swapnil spent hours and hours collecting information connected to Bollywood, and I did not hesitate to share information for this great research, which has now been beautifully converted into a book. I congratulate Swapnil on this remarkable achievement and wish her great success,” said Dr. Marwah while accepting a copy of the book from Dr. Rai.

During her address, Dr. Swapnil Rai shared her deep passion and insights into the complex connections between Bollywood stars and the global entertainment industry. Her interdisciplinary scholarship, which meticulously examines the pivotal role of stars in Bollywood’s globalization through extensive research and cultural analysis, has been widely praised for its depth and accessibility.

“Networked Bollywood” provides a comprehensive exploration of the various phases of Hindi cinema’s history, highlighting the key transformations influenced by significant historical events such as colonialism, independence, the Cold War, and the liberalization of the Indian economy. Dr. Rai argues that Bollywood’s global reach is not a recent phenomenon but rather a historical continuum, with its globalization origins tracing back through several decades of Hindi cinema.

The event underscored the significance of academic contributions to the understanding of global cinema and the role of Bollywood in shaping cultural narratives worldwide. Dr. Rai’s work is set to become an essential resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the evolution of Hindi cinema and its international impact.

The occasion was a testament to the collaborative spirit between academia and the film industry, fostering a deeper appreciation of the cultural and historical forces that continue to shape the global entertainment landscape. The event was supported by Indo American Film and Cultural Forum.

Noida, 20th August 2024 – The Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT) marked the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan with a special celebration at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of members from the spiritual organization Brahma Kumaris, including B.K. Poonam and B.K. Dinesh, who brought with them an enlightening message of knowledge and unity.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, founder of AAFT and a patron of the Brahma Kumaris, expressed his deep gratitude for the love and affection shown by the Brahma Kumaris on this significant day. “I am much obliged to the love and affection I have been shown by the spiritual organization Brahma Kumaris, especially on Raksha Bandhan. The presence of B.K. Poonam, B.K. Dinesh, and the other sisters has brought a lot of light and wisdom to our AAFT family,” he said.

The celebration was a beautiful blend of cultural and spiritual values, emphasizing the bond of protection and care that Raksha Bandhan symbolizes. The members of Brahma Kumaris tied sacred threads, or ‘Rakhis,’ to Dr. Marwah and others present, signifying a commitment to uphold the principles of brotherhood, peace, and spiritual growth.

The event highlighted the importance of spiritual connections in fostering a harmonious and enlightened environment, aligning with AAFT’s mission to nurture not just creative talent but also the holistic development of its students and staff. The Brahma Kumaris, known for their teachings on meditation and self-awareness, shared insights that resonated deeply with the AAFTians, inspiring them to lead lives filled with positivity and purpose.

Dr. Marwah’s long-standing association with the Brahma Kumaris has been a source of inspiration for many, and this Raksha Bandhan celebration further strengthened the bond between AAFT and the spiritual organization. The occasion served as a reminder of the power of spirituality in enriching lives and building a community grounded in values of love, respect, and mutual support.

The event concluded with a heartfelt exchange of blessings and a renewed commitment to continue spreading the light of knowledge and peace.

Noida, August 19, 2024: The AAFT School of Photography commemorated World Photography Day with great enthusiasm at Noida Film City. The event, held on August 19, celebrated the art and craft of photography, bringing together students, faculty, and photography enthusiasts to honor the rich history and evolving trends in the field.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chancellor of AAFT University, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of photography in capturing the essence of life and preserving moments for future generations.

“Photography is not just about capturing images; it is about telling stories, evoking emotions, and creating lasting memories. World Photography Day is a tribute to all those who have dedicated their lives to this powerful medium of expression. At AAFT, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of photographers who will continue to push the boundaries of this art form,” said Dr. Marwah.

As part of the celebration, a special poster was launched by the faculty and guests to mark the significance of the day. The poster, symbolizing the spirit of photography, was unveiled in the presence of students and esteemed guests, highlighting the importance of the day and the impact of photography on society.

Noida, August 16, 2024: The late Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, an iconic statesman, leader, poet, and former Prime Minister of India, was fondly remembered at an event held by the Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT) on his death anniversary. The solemn gathering took place at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City, where members of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) and students of AAFT paid tribute to the legendary leader.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of ICMEI and Chancellor of AAFT University, addressed the audience, reflecting on the immense contributions of Atal Bihari Vajpayee to India’s political, cultural, and literary landscape.

“Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a leader who not only shaped the future of our nation with his visionary policies but also touched countless lives with his profound poetry and unwavering dedication to the arts. To honor his legacy and keep his memory alive in our hearts, we initiated the ‘Atal Bihari Vajpayee National Award for Promotion of Art and Culture.’ This award recognizes individuals who have excelled in their respective fields of art and culture, embodying the spirit of creativity and excellence that Vajpayee Ji stood for,” said Dr. Marwah.

The Atal Bihari Vajpayee National Award for Promotion of Art and Culture has become a prestigious accolade within the Indian arts community, celebrating those who have made significant contributions to the promotion and preservation of Indian culture. Through this award, AAFT and ICMEI aim to inspire future generations to continue the legacy of excellence in the arts, as envisioned by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The event concluded with a collective remembrance of Vajpayee Ji’s life and work, underscoring the enduring impact he has left on the nation.

Noida, August 20, 2024: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), led by its visionary President Dr. Sandeep Marwah, extends its heartfelt congratulations to the people of the Republic of Congo on the occasion of their Independence Day. Dr. Marwah conveyed warm greetings to H.E. Raymond Serge Bale, Ambassador of the Republic of Congo to India, recognizing the significance of this day in the history of Congo and its people.

“On behalf of ICMEI, I would like to extend our sincere congratulations to the people of the Republic of Congo as they celebrate their Independence Day. The Republic of Congo has made remarkable strides in its journey towards growth and development, and we stand by them in their continued pursuit of progress,” stated Dr. Sandeep Marwah.

ICMEI is keen to deepen its engagement with the Republic of Congo and has expressed a strong desire to establish a dedicated committee for the Republic of Congo, with the support and blessings of Ambassador Raymond Serge Bale. This initiative aims to foster stronger cultural, economic, and social ties between India and the Republic of Congo.

“Although we are in the early stages of setting up this committee, we are enthusiastic about launching impactful events and programs that will enhance the relationship between our two nations. Our goal is to bring our partnership to a larger platform, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration,” Dr. Marwah added.

The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry is committed to promoting global cooperation through media, arts, and entertainment. ICMEI looks forward to playing a pivotal role in strengthening the bonds between India and the Republic of Congo through innovative initiatives and cultural exchanges.

Noida, August 20, 2024: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), under the esteemed leadership of Dr. Sandeep Marwah, extends its warmest congratulations to the people of Estonia on the occasion of the Day of Restoration of Independence. Dr. Marwah conveyed heartfelt greetings to H.E. Marje Luup, Ambassador of Estonia to India, and expressed ICMEI’s profound admiration for Estonia’s journey towards independence and its remarkable achievements since.

“On behalf of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry, I wish to extend our sincere congratulations to the people of Estonia as they celebrate this significant day in their nation’s history. Estonia’s spirit of resilience and determination continues to inspire the world,” said Dr. Sandeep Marwah.

ICMEI, recognizing the importance of fostering strong cultural and economic ties between India and Estonia, has established a dedicated committee focused on Estonia. While the committee is still in its early stages, there is an enthusiastic anticipation to launch impactful events and initiatives aimed at strengthening the bonds between the two nations.

“We are keen to initiate meaningful programs that will not only enhance cultural exchanges but also open new avenues for collaboration between India and Estonia. It is our firm belief that through such efforts, we can elevate our bilateral relations to a more prominent platform,” Dr. Marwah added.

The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry remains committed to promoting global understanding and cooperation through the power of media and entertainment. The chamber looks forward to playing a pivotal role in bringing the people of India and Estonia closer together through innovative and engaging initiatives.

Noida, 17th August 2024 – The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), under the dynamic leadership of Dr. Sandeep Marwah, proudly extends its warmest congratulations to H.E. Ina H Krishnamurthi, the Ambassador of Indonesia to India, and the people of Indonesia on the joyous occasion of their Independence Day.

Celebrated on the 17th of August each year, Indonesia’s Independence Day commemorates the nation’s declaration of independence from Dutch colonial rule in 1945. This historic day is a powerful reminder of the Indonesian people’s unwavering commitment to freedom, unity, and progress.

In his congratulatory message, Dr. Sandeep Marwah stated, “On behalf of the art and culture fraternity of India, I take this opportunity to extend my heartiest congratulations to H.E. Ina H Krishnamurthi and the people of Indonesia on their Independence Day. The spirit of independence and resilience that Indonesia embodies is truly commendable, and we are honored to celebrate this significant day with our Indonesian friends.”

Dr. Marwah, who also chairs the Indo-Indonesia Film and Cultural Forum, expressed his enthusiasm for the potential collaboration between India and Indonesia in the arts and cultural sectors. Although the Indo-Indonesia Film and Cultural Forum is yet to be formally announced, Dr. Marwah highlighted the tremendous scope for development and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of both nations.

“We see a vast potential for cultural exchange and artistic collaboration between India and Indonesia. The formation of the Indo-Indonesia Film and Cultural Forum will be a significant step towards fostering deeper ties between our two countries. We are excited about the opportunities ahead to explore and celebrate the vibrant cultures of both nations,” Dr. Marwah added.

ICMEI remains committed to promoting international cultural relations, and the anticipated formation of the Indo-Indonesia Film and Cultural Forum will further strengthen the bond between India and Indonesia, providing a platform for creative and cultural collaborations.

Noida, 17th August 2024 – The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), under the esteemed leadership of Dr. Sandeep Marwah, extends its warm congratulations to Ms. Josephine Patricia Ntyam Ehya, Chargé d’Affaires of Gabon in India, and the people of Gabon on the auspicious occasion of their Independence Day.

Celebrated annually on the 17th of August, Gabon’s Independence Day commemorates the nation’s liberation from French colonial rule in 1960. This day stands as a testament to the courage, resilience, and unity of the Gabonese people as they continue to chart a path of progress and development for their country.

In his congratulatory message, Dr. Sandeep Marwah expressed, “On behalf of the art and culture fraternity of India, I take this opportunity to extend my heartiest congratulations to Ms. Josephine Patricia Ntyam Ehya and the people of Gabon on their Independence Day. Gabon’s journey towards independence is inspiring, and we are proud to share in the celebration of this significant milestone.”

Dr. Marwah, who also chairs the Indo-Gabon Film and Cultural Forum, emphasized the importance of cultural and artistic collaboration between India and Gabon. Over the years, ICMEI has played a pivotal role in strengthening the ties between the two nations through a variety of events that promote and celebrate the rich cultural heritages of both countries.

“Our collaboration with Gabon has been instrumental in the success of several major events, including the Global Film Festival, Global Festival of Journalism, Global Literary Festival, Global Fashion Week, and the International Documentary Film Festival. These events have provided a platform for cultural exchange and mutual respect, further solidifying the strong bonds between India and Gabon,” Dr. Marwah added.

ICMEI remains committed to fostering cultural relations between India and Gabon, with a vision to continue supporting and promoting the artistic and cultural endeavors that bring the two nations closer.

Noida, 15th August 2024 – The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), under the leadership of its President, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, extends its heartfelt congratulations to H.E. Jang Jae Bok, the esteemed Ambassador of South Korea to India, and to the people of South Korea on the momentous occasion of their National Liberation Day.

National Liberation Day, celebrated on the 15th of August, marks a significant milestone in the history of South Korea as it commemorates the day the nation was liberated from Japanese colonial rule in 1945. This day not only symbolizes the resilience and determination of the South Korean people but also serves as a reminder of their enduring spirit and rich cultural heritage.

In his congratulatory message, Dr. Sandeep Marwah expressed, “On behalf of the art and culture fraternity of India, I take this opportunity to extend my heartiest congratulations to H.E. Jang Jae Bok and the people of South Korea on their National Liberation Day. South Korea’s journey of independence is a profound inspiration, and it is an honor to celebrate this day alongside our South Korean friends.”

Dr. Marwah, who also chairs the Indo-South Korea Film and Cultural Forum, highlighted the deep-rooted cultural and artistic collaboration between India and South Korea. Over the years, ICMEI has actively engaged in fostering bilateral relations through a series of high-profile events aimed at promoting the arts, culture, and media sectors of both nations.

“Our partnership with South Korea has been instrumental in the success of numerous significant events, including the Global Film Festival, Global Festival of Journalism, Global Literary Festival, Global Fashion Week, and the International Documentary Film Festival, among many others. The shared cultural experiences and collaborations have enriched the ties between our two countries, and we look forward to continuing this strong partnership,” Dr. Marwah added.

As India and South Korea continue to strengthen their bonds through cultural exchange and mutual respect, ICMEI remains committed to supporting and promoting the vibrant cultural and artistic landscapes of both nations.

Noida, India, 15th August 2024: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), on behalf of the entire fraternity of art and culture in India, extends its heartiest congratulations to H.E. Choe Hui Chol, Ambassador of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPR Korea) to India, and the people of DPR Korea on the occasion of National Liberation Day. Celebrated on 15th August, this day marks the historic liberation of Korea and serves as a symbol of pride and resilience for the nation.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of ICMEI, conveyed his best wishes, stating, “India and DPR Korea share a unique relationship, fostered through cultural and artistic exchanges. On this significant day, we celebrate the liberation of DPR Korea and reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the ties between our two nations.”

The Indo-DPR Korea Film and Cultural Forum, which has already been launched, plays a vital role in bridging the gap between the people of India and DPR Korea. Through this platform, ICMEI aims to enhance mutual understanding and promote cultural diplomacy. Dr. Marwah emphasized the importance of the forum, saying, “The Indo-DPR Korea Film and Cultural Forum is a significant initiative that brings our two countries closer together. We are dedicated to continuing our work in reducing the gap between our peoples through the medium of art and culture.”

The visit of H.E. Choe Hui Chol to ICMEI headquarters in Noida Film City has further strengthened the cultural ties between India and DPR Korea. This visit marked a significant step in enhancing relations through art and culture, paving the way for future collaborations. “The Ambassador’s visit to our headquarters was a milestone in our bilateral relationship. It has added to the strength of our cultural connections, and we look forward to building upon this foundation,” added Dr. Marwah.

ICMEI remains committed to promoting international relations through media and entertainment, with a special focus on cultural diplomacy. The celebration of DPR Korea’s National Liberation Day at ICMEI underscores its dedication to fostering closer artistic and cultural collaborations with nations across the world.