Category: news

Noida: Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and President of Marwah Studios and AAFT, highlighted the growth and expanding opportunities in hospitality and tourism during the World Tourism Day celebration organised by ICMEI and the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism, in association with AHPWI, at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Marwah emphasised the sector’s potential to generate employment, strengthen cultural exchange, promote international understanding and contribute to economic growth. He described tourism as a powerful bridge connecting people, cultures and nations, while encouraging students to prepare for its opportunities through practical training, professional discipline and skill development. A key focus of his address was Film and Cultural Tourism, which brings together cinema, creative experiences and cultural engagement to attract visitors and build lasting connections. Dr. Marwah explained how film studios and centres of artistic activity can become destinations for learning, inspiration and international exchange. Highlighting the scale of this engagement, Dr. Marwah reported that Noida Film City had recorded a cumulative footfall of approximately 100 million over the past four decades under Film and Cultural Tourism. He further stated that Marwah Studios had welcomed more than three million visitors from 156 countries since its inception. He also spoke about the world-record recognition associated with Marwah Studios’ contribution to Film and Cultural Tourism. Dr. Marwah observed that such engagement creates opportunities beyond filmmaking, supporting hospitality, travel, events, local businesses and creative education. He encouraged hospitality and tourism students to explore this intersection and develop experiences that showcase India’s artistic heritage and contemporary creative achievements. The celebration reinforced the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and industry in preparing skilled professionals. Dr. Marwah reiterated the guiding philosophy of Marwah Studios and ICMEI—“Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture”—and its relevance to tourism as a means of bringing the world closer together.

Noida: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), in association with the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism, celebrated World Tourism Day at Marwah Studios, Film City, Noida. Supported by AHPWI and the AAFT International Skill Development Council, the programme brought together hospitality and tourism leaders, educationists, professionals and students for discussions on the sector’s growth and the importance of skilled manpower. The distinguished speakers included Dr. Subhash Goyal, Chairman, STIC Travel Group, and Industry Dean, AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism; Pradeep Chandel, Founder Chairman and National President, AHPWI; Atul Upadhyay, Executive Director, Pride Group of Hotels; Dr. Sudhir Andrews, author, educationist and Member of the National Advisory Board; Sanjay Kaushik, Managing Partner, Holystone TFCI Hospitality India Fund and Abdul Aziz from the Embassy of Uzbekistan. Addressing a large audience representing different walks of life, including young students pursuing hospitality and tourism courses, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT and ICMEI, emphasised tourism’s role in connecting people, promoting cultural understanding and creating employment. He encouraged students to develop professional competence alongside discipline, communication skills, sensitivity to different cultures and a strong commitment to service. Dr. Marwah underlined the importance of practical learning and close cooperation between educational institutions and industry. He urged students to approach hospitality as a profession built on care, responsibility and the ability to create memorable experiences for others. Dr. Subhash Goyal highlighted the opportunities emerging across tourism and travel and stressed the need to prepare trained professionals capable of meeting changing industry expectations. Pradeep Chandel emphasised skill development and stronger industry participation in preparing young people for employment. Atul Upadhyay discussed the importance of service standards, operational knowledge and practical exposure in hotel management. Dr. Sudhir Andrews focused on the role of education in developing confident, competent and adaptable hospitality professionals. Sanjay Kaushik highlighted the sector’s business potential and the importance of professional management and a skilled workforce in supporting sustainable growth. Abdul Aziz of Tourism, Cultural and Education Section from Embassy of Uzbekistan talked about International tourism and its promotion worldwide. Throughout the programme, speakers emphasised the expanding hospitality market, the demand for trained manpower and the need for continuous learning. The discussions encouraged students to strengthen both their technical abilities and interpersonal skills to prepare for careers across hotels, travel, tourism and allied services. The celebration reaffirmed AAFT’s commitment to connecting classroom education with industry experience and preparing the next generation of hospitality and tourism professionals.  

New Delhi: The International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) extended warm congratulations and best wishes to H.E. Omar L. Castañeda Solares, Ambassador of Guatemala to the Republic of India, and to the people of Guatemala on the occasion of the country’s 205th anniversary of independence.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of ICMEI and Chair of the Indo Guatemala Film and Cultural Forum, conveyed the greetings during celebrations held at Hotel Grand in New Delhi.

Speaking to the press, Dr. Marwah expressed his warm wishes for Guatemala’s continued peace, prosperity and progress. He emphasised that national celebrations provide a valuable opportunity to honour a country’s heritage while strengthening friendship and understanding between nations.

Dr. Marwah highlighted the potential for India and Guatemala to deepen their engagement through cinema, arts, culture and creative education. He expressed ICMEI’s commitment to encouraging meaningful exchanges through the Indo Guatemala Film and Cultural Forum, including film screenings, cultural programmes and interaction among artists, filmmakers and students.

He further underlined ICMEI’s guiding philosophy, “Love, Peace and Unity Through Art and Culture,” as the foundation of its efforts to connect people across borders.

ICMEI reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Indo Guatemala friendship and extended its best wishes to Ambassador Castañeda Solares and the Embassy of Guatemala on this significant national occasion.

Noida: In recognition of his initiative in presenting the inaugural Film India Expo at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Dr. Mukesh Kumar, CEO of Film India Expo, was presented with the Life Membership of the International Film and Television Club (IFTC) of AAFT by Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT and Marwah Studios.

Organised in association with AAFT, the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) and Marwah Studios, the Expo marked an important step towards strengthening the cinema and media ecosystem in North India. It created a platform for collaboration, innovation, professional networking and new opportunities within the film and entertainment industry.

Presenting the membership, Dr. Marwah emphasised the importance of initiatives that connect creative talent, industry expertise and enterprise. “Film India Expo represents a valuable initiative for bringing the film and entertainment fraternity together. Stronger connections between industry professionals, institutions and emerging talent can open doors to new ideas, partnerships and growth. We are pleased to recognise Dr. Mukesh Kumar’s initiative by welcoming him as a Life Member of the International Film and Television Club of AAFT,” said Dr. Marwah.

He highlighted the role of educational institutions in supporting the development of the creative economy. “North India has immense creative potential. Platforms such as Film India Expo can help translate that potential into professional opportunities. Through AAFT, ICMEI and Marwah Studios, we remain committed to encouraging meaningful engagement between education and industry,” he added.

Accepting the recognition, Dr. Mukesh Kumar expressed his appreciation for the association and support. “It is an honour to receive the Life Membership of IFTC. Film India Expo was conceived as a platform to encourage interaction, collaboration and growth across the cinema and entertainment sector. The association with AAFT, ICMEI and Marwah Studios has been deeply encouraging, and I thank Dr. Sandeep Marwah for recognising this initiative,” he said. “Our endeavour is to build on this beginning and create further opportunities for professionals, organisations and aspiring talent to connect and work together,” Dr. Kumar added.

The presentation celebrated an initiative aimed at expanding industry engagement and reaffirmed the shared commitment of the participating organisations to strengthening North India’s film and media ecosystem.

Belgium Honour for Dr. Sandeep Marwah: Father Kamil Bulcke Award Presented at AAFT’s 129th Convocation Noida: International recognition added a special dimension to the 129th Convocation of AAFT at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City, as Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT, was honoured with the Father Kamil Bulcke Award by the Global Language Art and Cultural Organization Europe.

The award, recognising outstanding contributions to the promotion, research and enrichment of the Hindi language and its literature, was presented by Dr. Kapil Kumar, renowned actor, writer and politician from Belgium, who attended the convocation as Chief Guest.

The occasion brought together two significant milestones: the graduation of AAFT’s 129th batch and another international honour from Belgium for Dr. Marwah. Presented before the graduating students, the recognition highlighted the enduring relationship between language, creative education and cultural exchange.

“Hindi is a powerful medium of expression that carries our stories, values and cultural identity across borders. Through his work in media, education and international cultural cooperation, Dr. Sandeep Marwah has created opportunities for Indian voices and creativity to reach wider audiences. We are delighted to recognise his contribution through the Father Kamil Bulcke Award,” said Dr. Kapil Kumar. “His contribution through Asian Academy of Arts, Writers Association of India, Global Literary Festival, Radio Noida 107.4FM and MSTV is worth praising,” He added.

Accepting the honour, Dr. Marwah expressed his gratitude to the organisation and the visiting Chief Guest. “This award holds special meaning for me because it celebrates language and culture, and because I am receiving it in the presence of our graduating students. Hindi connects people through literature, cinema and everyday expression. I am grateful to the Global Language Art and Cultural Organization Europe and Dr. Kapil Kumar for this recognition,” said Dr. Marwah.

He encouraged the graduates to value their linguistic and cultural heritage as they begin their professional journeys.

“Be open to the world while remaining connected to your roots. Our languages carry a wealth of ideas, emotions and stories. Use your creative skills to give those stories new life and take them to audiences everywhere. Let your work promote love, peace and unity through art and culture,” he added. The presentation gave the convocation an international cultural dimension, offering students a memorable example of how dedication to education, language and the arts can build connections beyond national boundaries.

“Work Is Worship”: Dr. Sandeep Marwah Inspires Graduates at AAFT’s Landmark 129th Convocation Noida. A powerful message of dedication, discipline and purpose marked the convocation of the 129th Batch of AAFT at Marwah Studios, Noida Film City. Addressing the graduating students, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of AAFT, urged them to enter the professional world with confidence, uphold their values and build their identity through the quality of their work.

“It is a privilege to address you at this significant milestone in your lives. My message to every student is simple yet powerful: ‘Work is Worship.’ Dedication, discipline, sincerity and continuous hard work are the foundations of lasting success. Respect your profession, remain committed to excellence, keep learning, and never allow challenges to weaken your determination,” said Dr. Marwah.

He encouraged the graduates to carry AAFT’s creative spirit into their chosen professions, combining ambition with humility and talent with responsibility.

“Dream big, work with passion, stay humble, and let your work become your identity. Your education has prepared you to begin; your commitment to learning and excellence will determine how far you go,” he added.

Highlighting the significance of the occasion, Dr. Marwah described the 129th convocation as a new world-record milestone for AAFT, surpassing its own previous achievement. According to AAFT, no other creative institution in the world has conducted 129 convocations for successive batches of creative students.

“Today, every one of you is part of this extraordinary milestone. You share in an achievement that reflects AAFT’s sustained commitment to creative education and the aspirations of generations of students,” he stated. Extending his blessings and best wishes, Dr. Marwah called upon the graduates to make their families and institution proud through sincere effort and professional integrity. “I wish every one of you a healthy, wealthy and prosperous life. Create a name for yourself, bring pride to your family and your institution, and contribute meaningfully to your chosen profession. Let your sincerity guide your progress and your achievements inspire others,” he said.

The convocation marked both the completion of an important educational journey and the beginning of a new chapter for AAFT’s graduating students, with “Work is Worship” serving as a guiding message for their professional lives.

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 New Delhi. Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City, President of Marwah Studios and Vice President of the Film Federation of India. 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. Hence 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. Hence he said that his work held a distinctive place in the industry and that FTPA honoured to welcome him as its Patron.

The felicitation recognised a professional journey dedicated to creating opportunities for such as 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.