8th Global Fashion and Design Week 2024: Celebrating Cultural Diversity Through Design

Noida: The 8th Global Fashion and Design Week 2024 showcased an extraordinary confluence of creativity and cultural diversity. Designers of AAFT gathered to present furniture designs inspired by the rich art and culture of various countries, reflecting the global essence of the event. The exhibition was well appreciated by IID- Indian Institute of Interior Design the Apex body of Interior Design in India.

The event highlighted the exceptional talents of designers who drew inspiration from different nations, bringing unique cultural elements into their furniture designs. Here are the designers and the countries that inspired their creations:

Aman Singh  -Armenia, Ananya Shrimali – Bosnia, Arshan Saifi – Bulgaria, Arti Sisodiya – Mauritius, Bhawna Agrawal – Fiji, Chetan Nayyar – Zimbabwe, Darshika Rajput – Iran, Deepika Chhabra – Azerbaijan, Diksha Madhyan – Afghanistan, Himja Trivedi – DPR Korea, Pragya Khetarpal – Hungary, Ruby – Cyprus, Tanishqua Bhargava – Venezuela, Vikas Sharma – Iraq, Yashvi Kashyap – Ghana, Yashvi Yadav – Slovenia, Aditi Mishra – Cuba, Harsh Gogai – Mongolia, Jyoti Chauhan – Comoros, Paridhi Jain – Serbia, Pooja Kumari – Egypt, Abhishek Anurag – Nigeria, Abuzar Zaidi – Malaysia, Anannya Gupta – Tunisia, Anshika Maheshwari – Czech Republic, Ayush Verma – India, Azad Rai – Morocco, Geetanjali – Cambodia, Himanshi Garg – Sudan, Kashish Jain – Vietnan, Kavleen Kaur – Gabon, Khushi Jain – Guyana, Mani Chaudhary – Japan, Manisha William – Belarus, Mantasha Saifi – Lesotho, Mehar Arshad – Tajikistan, Rachit Kumar – Peru, Rehan Ahmad – Maldives, Ria Chaudhary – Myanmar, Ritik Gaur – Kazakhstan, Sameer Saifi – Ireland, Shambhavi Kant – Rwanda, Yashika Garg – Uzbekistan, Yogita Bhatia – Papua New Guinea

The event, held at the prestigious Marwah Studios, Noida, witnessed the participation of international delegates, design enthusiasts, and media professionals. Each piece of furniture displayed during the week reflected the deep cultural heritage and artistic sensibilities of the respective countries, making it a true celebration of global unity through design. Every furniture  representing the country is supported by the film and cultural Forum of that nation.

Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, expressed his admiration for the designers, stating, “The 8th Global Fashion and Design Week is a testament to the power of art and design in bridging cultural gaps. Each designer has done a remarkable job in capturing the essence of their chosen country, and it is inspiring to see such a diverse and vibrant collection of work.”

The event not only celebrated the fusion of art and culture but also provided a platform for designers to showcase their work to a global audience, fostering innovation and creativity in the field of design. Large number of Ambassadors and High Commissioners of different countries also appreciated the setup. The exhibition was designed by AAFT School of Interior Design and International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Indusry.

Sandeep Marwah Inaugurates MSME Conclave on Resurgence and Growth of MSMEs and Startups

New Delhi: The MSME Conclave on Resurgence and Growth of MSMEs and Startups, organized by the Mantras Foundation of Kolkata and supported by the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry, was inaugurated by Sandeep Marwah. The event took place in the auditorium of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in New Delhi.

Addressing a large audience comprising MSME stakeholders, Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios, emphasized the importance of self-reliance and self-sufficiency, invoking the term “Atmanirbhar.” In his speech, Marwah elaborated on the concept with the help of idioms, poetry, and phrases, urging everyone to step out of their comfort zones and work diligently towards making India the third-largest economy in the world. He highlighted the crucial role that MSMEs play in this endeavour.

Other notable speakers at the event included Rajnish Goenka, Chairman of the MSME Development Forum, Madhukar Mishra, B.K. Sabharwal, Chairman of the Finance Committee of PHDCCI, Kailash Gupta, President of Delhi Udyog Vyapar, Vikas Gupta, General Secretary of MIWA, Sharad Kohli, Economist, and Sanjay Jain, Managing Director of T.T. Ltd.

In his address, Marwah remarked, “The time has come for us to embrace the spirit of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ We must all strive to make India a global economic powerhouse, and MSMEs have a vital role to play in this journey. Let us commit to hard work and innovation to achieve our goals.”

The conclave provided a platform for thought leaders and industry experts to discuss strategies for the resurgence and growth of MSMEs and startups, focusing on innovative solutions and sustainable practices. The event also facilitated networking opportunities for MSME entrepreneurs and stakeholders, fostering collaborations and partnerships for future growth.

Sandeep Marwah Honoured for His Contribution to the Promotion of MSMEs

New Delhi: – Renowned media personality Sandeep Marwah was honored at the ‘MSME Conclave on Resurgence and Growth of MSME and Startups’ held at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry of India in New Delhi. This event celebrated his significant contributions to the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.

Sandeep Marwah, the founder of Noida Film City, has established a thriving hub for media and entertainment in India. Noida Film City, recognized as the fastest-growing film city in the country, is home to 16 studios and provides broadcasting space for 350 channels. This bustling center employs approximately 17,000 people in three shifts, indirectly supporting the livelihoods of around 150,000 individuals.

In addition to his achievements with Noida Film City, Sandeep Marwah has played a pivotal role in promoting Marwah Studios. Through Marwah Studios, he has supported the production of 4,500 television programs for various MSME media and entertainment organizations across more than fifty channels. His efforts have also resulted in the creation of around 5,000 training films and 3,500 short films, fostering the growth of numerous MSME startups.

The award was presented to Sandeep Marwah by Rajnish Goenka, Chairman of the MSME Development Forum, in the presence of distinguished guests including Madhukar Mishra, B.K. Sabharwal, Chairman of the Finance Committee of PHDCCI, Kailash Gupta, President of Delhi Udyog Vyapar, Vikas Gupta, General Secretary of MIWA, Sharad Kohli, Economist, and Sanjay Jain, Managing Director of T.T. Ltd.

In his acceptance speech, Sandeep Marwah expressed his gratitude to the organizers and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the MSME sector. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in Noida Film City and Marwah Studios. We are committed to fostering innovation, creating employment opportunities, and supporting the growth of MSMEs in India,” said Marwah.

The event highlighted the critical role of MSMEs in driving economic growth and employment in India. With leaders like Sandeep Marwah at the forefront, the MSME sector is poised for a future of innovation and expansion.

16th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema: Celebrating Innovation and Creativity

Noida: The 16th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema concluded with an extravagant award function held at Marwah Studios, Film City Noida. The event was attended by a diverse audience, including the awardees, film, TV, and media students from all over India, along with notable personalities from various sectors.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and the International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, expressed his pride and joy during the event. “We have done it; an unknown idea has now become a universal idea. If you are unique and different, it might get you criticism in the beginning, but later the same people will follow you. We have proved this many times, be it the concept of Film City, a Film School, a Film & TV Club, a Film and TV Research Centre, or the Cellphone Cinema Festival,” said Dr. Marwah.

This year, the festival received an overwhelming response, with 2500 entries from across the country and many other nations. The pre-jury meticulously selected the entries for the finals, and later, senior jury members finalized the awards.

The awards were distributed across four categories: The first Segment was of Mobile Films up to 3 Minutes (Fiction) 1st Prize went to Yash Gaharwar, 2nd Prize to Kreette Sharotri, 3rd Prize: to Akshika Mittal, and the Consolation Prize was given to Manhar Kaur.

Second category was of Documentary/News Gathering upto 3 minutes where 1st Prize was awarded to Aayush Pathak, 2nd Prize to Gobind Gore 3rd Prize to  Himanshu Pandey, and Consolation Prize was given to Pradumn Waghmare,

Third category was Music Videos upto 3 minutes 1st Prize went to  Anam Kausar, and 2nd Prizewas awarded to  Ambrish Dubey. The fourth category was Still Photography and  1st Prize to Rajat, 2nd Prize to Shubham, 3rd Prize was awarded to Himanshu Pandey. Following the award distribution, the audience had the opportunity to watch the award-winning films, which were met with great appreciation.

The International Festival of Cellphone Cinema has once again showcased the boundless potential and creativity that can be achieved through the lens of a cellphone. The festival continues to be a pioneering platform, inspiring countless filmmakers and photographers to explore new horizons and express their unique visions.

Yogesh Mishra Festival President  paid vote of thanks to all the dignitaries and also invited the applications for the 17th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema.

17th International Festival of Cellphone Cinema Inaugurated at Marwah Studios

oida, June 16, 2024: The 17th edition of the International Festival of Cellphone Cinema was inaugurated with great enthusiasm and fanfare at Marwah Studios. This pioneering festival, which celebrates the art of filmmaking using mobile phones, has come a long way since its inception in 2007.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Festival of Cellphone Cinema, proudly reminisced about the festival’s origins. “We were the first in the world to start a festival of films made from mobiles. In 2007, we conducted our first festival and surprised the whole world. That same year, we also produced a film on mobile in association with Karl Bardosh, Master Professor at Tisch School of Arts, New York University. The film was made half in Noida and half in New York,” he shared.

Dr. Marwah further highlighted the global influence of the festival, stating, “We have been instrumental in starting mobile festivals in New York, USA, Budapest in Hungary, and Cannes in France. The rest is history.”

The event saw a large audience from different strata of life, all keenly listening to the speakers. The guest of honours included notable personalities from various fields: Ludmilla Chakrabarty, Author, who delivered an inspiring speech about the transformative power of mobile cinema.. Sanjeev Sood, Cinematographer, shared his insights on the evolving landscape of filmmaking., Rajeev K Sharma, IPS, discussed the importance of mobile technology in modern communication, Kushaal Chawla, Filmmaker, expressed his admiration for the innovative platform provided by the festival.,

Ashok Tyagi, Film Maker, narrated his experiences and the impact of mobile filmmaking on traditional cinema., Yogesh Mishra, Dean of AAFT, condensed the essence of the festival’s significance and its contribution to the creative industry. The program was followed by screening of mobile films.

The festival continues to be a trailblazer, encouraging filmmakers from around the world to explore and experiment with mobile technology. It stands as a testament to the democratization of filmmaking, making it accessible to everyone with a creative vision and a mobile phone.

Later Dr Sandeep Marwah horned the dignitaries with life membership of  IJC-International Journalism Centre and presented participation certificates to guest from different parts of the country.

121st Batch of AAFT Commences at Marwah Studios

Noida, June 15, 2024 – In an unprecedented milestone, Marwah Studios proudly announces the commencement of the 121st batch of the Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT). This achievement cements AAFT’s position as the only creative institution globally to have reached such a significant number of training batches. Dr. Sandeep Marwah, the visionary Founder President of AAFT, expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the entire administration, management, faculty, and the students of AAFT who are spread across the globe.

“Today, we are not just opening a new batch; we are setting a record. This remarkable journey has been possible due to the relentless efforts and dedication of everyone associated with AAFT,” said Dr. Marwah during the inauguration ceremony. He further added, “On this auspicious occasion, we are also commemorating the birth anniversary of our founder Patron, Shri Suraj Parkash Marwah Ji. It is with his blessings that we have reached this level and established an international reputation.”

The event witnessed an enthusiastic gathering of young students embarking on their careers in various creative disciplines such as Films, Television, Media, Fashion, Design, Interior Designing, Hospitality, Tourism, and Performing Arts. Dr. Marwah’s motivational speech ignited a sense of ambition and dedication among the new students, encouraging them to pursue their creative passions with fervor and commitment.

The ceremony was graced by notable personalities from diverse fields who shared their insights and experiences with the budding artists. Renowned author Ludmilla Chakrabarty inspired the students with her literary journey, while esteemed cinematographer Sanjeev Sood discussed the evolving landscape of visual storytelling. Rajiv Sharma, IPS, former Additional Director General of Police, shared his unique perspective on discipline and creativity, emphasizing the importance of integrity and hard work. Film director Kushaal Chawla encouraged the students to think outside the box and embrace innovative storytelling techniques.

AAFT, since its inception, has been a beacon of excellence in creative arts education. The academy’s curriculum, designed to nurture talent and foster innovation, has produced numerous successful professionals in the creative industry. The 121st batch stands as a testament to AAFT’s unwavering commitment to providing top-tier education and training in the creative fields.

As the new batch embarks on their educational journey, they carry forward the legacy of AAFT, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and inspiration to make their mark in the world. The institution’s global network of alumni and its strong industry connections ensure that students receive unparalleled opportunities and exposure.

With the support of its distinguished faculty and industry experts, AAFT continues to set new benchmarks in creative arts education, empowering students to realize their dreams and contribute to the ever-evolving world of media and entertainment.

Powerful Cinema Workshop by Renowned Filmmaker Pankaj Parashar at AAFT

Noida: The Asian Academy of Film and Television (AAFT) recently hosted a transformative three-day cinema workshop led by the illustrious filmmaker Pankaj Parashar, known for his acclaimed films such as “Jalwa,” “ChaalBaaz,” “Aasman Se Gira,” and “Banaras,” as well as iconic TV serials like “Karamchand” and “Ab Ayega Maza.” This intensive workshop aimed to equip AAFT’s cinema students with practical industry skills and insights directly from a veteran of the Indian film industry.

Throughout the workshop, Pankaj Parashar generously shared his extensive experience and profound knowledge of filmmaking. He engaged students in the actual process of film production, providing them with a hands-on learning opportunity that involved both the supporting cast and crew from AAFT. This unique approach allowed students to gain real-world experience under the guidance of a master filmmaker.

The workshop provided a rare and invaluable experience for AAFT’s cinema students, as they had the opportunity to work closely with Pankaj Parashar over several hours each day. They witnessed firsthand the intricacies of film production and direction, all within the professional environment of Marwah Studios. The practical exposure and mentorship from a filmmaker of Parashar’s caliber were both inspiring and educational for the aspiring young filmmakers.

Reflecting on his time at AAFT, Pankaj Parashar expressed his delight in mentoring the students. “It has been a wonderful experience for me to share my expertise with these talented young individuals. The environment and education at AAFT are truly exceptional. The discipline and dedication of these students towards cinema are impressive, and I believe they are well-prepared for successful careers in the industry. I am glad to have contributed my share of knowledge to these future filmmakers,” said Parashar.

AAFT President Sandeep Marwah also expressed his gratitude towards Pankaj Parashar for his significant contribution to the institution. “We are incredibly thankful to Pankaj Parashar for his efforts and the time he dedicated to this workshop. His presence has greatly enriched our cinema course and provided our students with an extraordinary learning experience. It is an honor to have him as part of our academic journey,” Marwah stated, while presenting Parashar with the life membership of the International Film and Television Research Centre.

The workshop concluded on a high note, leaving a lasting impact on the participants. The students departed with enhanced skills, newfound knowledge, and a deeper understanding of the filmmaking process, all thanks to Pankaj Parashar’s mentorship. This workshop underscores AAFT’s commitment to providing its students with unparalleled educational experiences and industry exposure, preparing them for successful careers in the dynamic world of cinema.

Food Festival Closing Session Showcases Culinary Delights from Palestine and Argentina

Noida: The 8th Global Fashion and Design Week concluded with a grand culinary showcase that brought together the rich flavors of Palestine and Argentina, demonstrating the power of food to foster cultural understanding and unity. The closing session of the food festival, held by the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism, was a testament to the diplomatic policies of India, which emphasize peace, unity, and mutual support among nations.

“At a time when the world is restless and marked by divisive sentiments, it is truly remarkable to witness India’s commitment to diplomacy, where everyone supports each other, promoting peace and unity through the arts and culture,” remarked Basim F. Hallis of the Palestine Embassy in India. His words resonated with the festival’s spirit, emphasizing how cultural exchange through culinary arts can bridge gaps and bring people together.

The event saw a large gathering of dignitaries from various strata of life, all present to support the young and talented chefs who showcased their culinary skills. The presence of such a diverse and high-profile audience underscored the significance of the event in promoting cultural diplomacy and international friendship.

Sandeep Marwah, in his closing remarks, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the Embassies and High Commissions for their unwavering support and cooperation, which played a crucial role in making the food festival a resounding success. He highlighted the importance of such collaborative efforts in fostering a global community that celebrates diversity through the shared love of food.

“The support from the international community has been overwhelming, and it is this spirit of cooperation that makes events like these not only possible but also profoundly impactful. The culinary arts are a universal language that transcends borders, and today, we have experienced a beautiful symphony of flavors that unite us all,” said Marwah.

The festival provided a platform for young chefs to exhibit their culinary prowess, gaining exposure and appreciation from a global audience. It also reinforced the role of food as a medium of cultural exchange, offering a unique opportunity for attendees to experience the rich gastronomic traditions of Palestine and Argentina.

As the event drew to a close, the success of the food festival was evident in the smiles and satisfied palates of all attendees. The celebration of culinary arts, backed by the diplomatic ethos of peace and unity, set a precedent for future cultural collaborations, promising even greater achievements in the years to come. The event was supported by Indo Palestine Film and Cultural Forum & Argentina Film and Cultural Forum of International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry.

Turkish Cuisine Shines at 8th Global Fashion and Design Week

Noida, India: The 8th Global Fashion and Design Week continued to delight and surprise its international audience with a spectacular display of Turkish cuisine on the second day of its food festival. This session, inaugurated by His Excellency Firat Sunel, Ambassador of Turkey to India, was a highlight of the week-long event. The students of AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism showcased their culinary skills, presenting an array of traditional Turkish dishes that left the national and international guests in awe.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Festival, emphasized the pivotal role of food in cultural promotion and exchange. In his address, he stated, “Food is a fundamental aspect of culture that transcends boundaries and fosters mutual understanding and appreciation. Today’s presentation of Turkish cuisine is a perfect example of how culinary arts can bring nations closer.”

His Excellency Firat Sunel, in his opening remarks, highlighted the longstanding relationship between India and Turkey, noting the importance of such cultural events in strengthening bilateral ties. “The shared love for food and culture between our nations is evident in today’s celebration. It is a pleasure to see the efforts of young chefs bringing Turkish flavors to India,” he said.

The session was organized with the support of the Indo Turkey Film and Cultural Forum of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry. The forum has been instrumental in promoting cultural ties and projecting the powerful relations between India and Turkey through various initiatives, including this vibrant food festival.

The culinary display included a wide range of Turkish dishes, from savory kebabs to sweet baklava, each meticulously prepared by the talented students of AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism. The authenticity and flavors of the dishes were highly praised by the attendees, who appreciated the students’ dedication and culinary prowess.

“Everyone loved the food and the entire experience was truly enriching,” remarked a guest at the festival. The efforts of the students were applauded, with many noting the festival as a fantastic platform for showcasing the rich culinary traditions of different countries.

As the 8th Global Fashion and Design Week progresses, it continues to serve as a beacon of cultural exchange and creativity. The inclusion of diverse culinary presentations underscores the event’s commitment to fostering global unity and appreciation of different cultures.

Algeria and Venezuela Cuisine Takes Center Stage at 8th Global Fashion and Design Week

Noida, India: The 8th Global Fashion and Design Week became a melting pot of culinary delights as national and international audiences were treated to an array of exquisite foods from Algeria and Venezuela. The event, held in Noida, showcased a rich tapestry of flavors and cultural heritage, leaving attendees amazed and appreciative of the diverse culinary offerings.

The second day of the festival featured a special session dedicated to the vibrant cultures of Venezuela and Algeria. This session underscored the deepening cultural and diplomatic relations between India and these two nations, as reflected through their cuisine. Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the Festival, emphasized the holistic nature of culture, which encompasses films, media, fashion, design, and notably, food.

“Culture is an all-encompassing entity that bridges nations and fosters understanding,” Dr. Marwah remarked. “Today’s display is a testament to the culinary richness of Algeria and Venezuela, brought together through the support of the Indo Algeria Film and Cultural Forum and the Indo Venezuela Film and Cultural Forum.”

The culinary display was a collaborative effort, with contributions from both the Indo Algeria Film and Cultural Forum and the Indo Venezuela Film and Cultural Forum. Their combined efforts resulted in a delightful presentation that not only highlighted the unique flavors of each country but also celebrated the unity in diversity.

The session was inaugurated by His Excellency Ali Achoui, Ambassador of Algeria to India, and Alfredo Caldera, Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of Venezuela and  Marat Melikyan Counsellor Embassy of Armenia.. In his address, H.E. Ali Achoui expressed his pride in showcasing Algerian cuisine on an international platform and praised the festival for its role in cultural diplomacy. Alfredo Caldera echoed these sentiments, noting the significance of such events in strengthening cultural ties and mutual appreciation.

Attendees had the opportunity to savor traditional dishes, each telling a story of its heritage and the people who have perfected it over generations. The festival’s culinary segment served as a delicious reminder of the power of food in bridging cultural gaps and fostering international camaraderie.

As the festival continues, it promises more such enriching experiences, bringing the world closer through the universal language of food. The 8th Global Fashion and Design Week stands as a beacon of cultural exchange, creativity, and global unity.