Conclave On Gujarat’s Entertainment & Media Industry On February 28, 2026, At The Campus Of Gujarat University, Ahmedabad Successfully Concluded

Mumbai: The Western India Film & TV Producers’ Association (WIFPA) and the Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC), a body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, organized a conference on Gujarat’s entertainment and media industry on February 28, 2026, at the campus of Gujarat University in Ahmedabad. The seminar witnessed participation from government officials, prominent personalities from the film fraternity, producers, artists, technicians, and students of Gujarat University.

Renowned speakers including Dr. Jayantilal Gada, Dr. Abhay Sinha, Sandeep Patel, Dr. Netri Trivedi, Abhishek Shah, and Abhishek Jain shared valuable insights on the opportunities and challenges in the entertainment sector. The chief organizers of the council, SEPC Director Dr. Abhay Kumar Sinha and WIFPA President Sangram Shirkhe, cited the example of the superhit Gujarati film Lalo, stating that the Gujarati film industry is poised to achieve a distinct position in the coming years. They also encouraged the students of Gujarat University. WIFPA Vice President Dr. Hirachand Dand, one of the key organizers, shared his perspectives on the future of the entertainment industry.

The WIFPA delegation included Senior Vice President Mrs. Anjana Sharma; Honorary General Secretary Dinesh Ashiwal; Joint Secretary Chandni Gupta; Dharmendra Mehra, Honorary General Secretary of the Film Makers Combine and the Film Federation of India; Amit Kumar Gupta, Treasurer – Film Makers Combine; Dr. Pralhad Khandare, Champ Treasurer; Mrs. Chanda Patel; Akhil Kotak; and Executive Committee Member and Gujarat Office Manager Hitesh Anand.

The conference featured discussions on various topics including the Gujarati film industry, film production challenges, government subsidies, the role of writers and directors, and the development of cinema halls in Gujarat. Gujarati film star Hitesh Kanodia, along with the entire team of the film Lalo and other artists, participated in the seminar and B2B sessions. The event showcased the talent of Gujarati artists and technicians, giving a new direction to Gujarati cinema.

The Government of Gujarat’s cinema and tourism policy aims to facilitate film production by offering financial incentives, infrastructure development, and employment opportunities for youth.

First Dialogue Council On Gujarat Entertainment And Media Industries Concludes At Gujarat University, Ahmedabad

Mo Fakhro Launches India–Bahrain Biotech Corridor Integrating Genomics, Technology Commercialization And Scalable Enterprise Models

Mo Fakhro, Stanford-trained scientist and technology entrepreneur, has announced the launch of a structured India–Bahrain biotech collaboration framework aimed at accelerating cross-border research, commercialization, and scalable life sciences ventures.

Branded “Dhows to DNA,” the initiative references the historic trade routes between Indian ports such as Mumbai and Gulf commercial hubs like Manama — but its mandate is firmly future-facing: building an innovation corridor connecting Indian scientific institutions with Gulf capital, regulatory ecosystems, and expansion markets.

From Scientific Discovery to Market Deployment

Unlike conventional academic exchange programs, the India–Bahrain Biotech Corridor is designed as an implementation-led platform.

Fakhro brings experience across genomics research, technology commercialization, venture structuring, and franchise-led enterprise scaling. His approach integrates scientific discovery with operational frameworks that allow biotech solutions to move from laboratory environments into commercially viable, regionally scalable enterprises.

The initiative will prioritize:

* Translational genomics and applied biotechnology

* Climate-resilient agriculture and precision bio-manufacturing

* Structured IP co-development frameworks

* Commercialization pathways linking Indian R&D to Gulf investment ecosystems

* Replicable expansion models inspired by franchise-based scaling principles

“India’s research depth and entrepreneurial dynamism, combined with Gulf capital strength and diversification strategy, creates a powerful alignment opportunity,” Fakhro stated.

Strategic Timing

India has solidified its position as a global pharmaceutical and biotechnology powerhouse, with expanding capabilities in advanced genomics, bio-manufacturing, and health innovation. Simultaneously, Bahrain and neighboring Gulf economies are accelerating post-oil diversification strategies centered on knowledge industries and high-value technology sectors.

The proposed corridor seeks to align these trajectories through structured collaboration — connecting research institutions, investors, regulators, and enterprise operators.

Fakhro’s prior work in technology deployment and cross-border enterprise scaling underpins the framework’s commercial viability. Rather than limiting engagement to research memoranda, the initiative emphasizes operational roadmaps, capital integration, and long-term ecosystem building.

Economic and Policy Implications

The India–Bahrain biotech corridor has potential implications across:

* Life sciences exports and IP co-ownership

* Advanced manufacturing and supply chain integration

* Scientific talent mobility

* Joint venture structuring in emerging biotech verticals

* Bilateral innovation diplomacy

By combining heritage ties with structured enterprise architecture, the initiative aims to serve as a replicable model for South Asia–Gulf technology collaboration.

About Mo Fakhro

Mo Fakhro is a scientist and technology entrepreneur with experience spanning genomics, biotechnology commercialization, cross-border venture structuring, and scalable franchise-driven enterprise development. His work focuses on designing systems that connect scientific innovation with operational execution across emerging markets.

More information: https://mofakhro.com/

Mo Fakhro Launches India–Bahrain Biotech Corridor Integrating Genomics, Technology Commercialization And Scalable Enterprise Models

Strengthening India–Slovakia Cultural Diplomacy: Dr. Sandeep Marwah Meets President H.E. Peter Pellegrini

New Delhi, India: In a landmark diplomatic engagement underscoring the growing synergy between India and Slovakia, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Chair of the Indo Slovakia Film and Cultural Forum, had the distinguished honour of participating in an exclusive and high-level interaction with His Excellency Peter Pellegrini, Hon’ble President of Slovakia, at the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in India.

The meeting was further elevated by the gracious presence of H.E. Robert Maxian, Ambassador of Slovakia to India. The atmosphere reflected warmth, mutual admiration, and a shared vision to deepen cultural and educational bonds between the two nations.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah—President of Marwah Studios and Founder of Asian Academy of Film & Television—articulated the transformative power of creative industries in shaping global diplomacy. Representing the Indo Slovakia Film and Cultural Forum, he emphasized the strategic importance of cinema, media, performing arts, and academic collaboration as dynamic instruments of people-to-people engagement.

“Cultural diplomacy forms the bedrock of enduring international relationships,” remarked Dr. Marwah. “By fostering collaborations in film production, education, and artistic innovation, India and Slovakia can craft a partnership anchored in shared values, progressive thought, and creative excellence.”

The high-level dialogue explored expansive opportunities including film co-productions, structured student exchange programs, collaborative research initiatives, cultural festivals, and institutional partnerships aimed at building a vibrant bridge between the creative and academic communities of both countries.

This significant meeting reaffirmed a collective commitment to broadening bilateral cooperation and marked a decisive step toward strengthening the long-standing friendship between India and Slovakia through cultural and educational diplomacy.

Strengthening India–Slovakia Cultural Diplomacy: Dr. Sandeep Marwah Meets President H.E. Peter Pellegrini

The Lifetime Achievement Award Was Presented To Renowned Tabla Exponent Ustad Sarvar Sabri (UK) For His Outstanding Contribution To The International Music Scene In The UK

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to renowned tabla exponent Ustad Sarvar Sabri (UK) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the International Music Scene in the United Kingdom. The son of the legendary sarangi maestro Ustad Sabri Khan, Ustad Sarvar Sabri has upheld a rich musical heritage while forging his own distinguished path as a master percussionist, composer, and educator.

Through decades of dedication, performance, and mentorship, he has played a transformative role in strengthening the presence of Indian classical music in the UK. As one of the pioneering Indian musicians to establish himself prominently in Britain, he has introduced the depth and sophistication of tabla to diverse audiences. His collaborations with leading international artists and cultural institutions have built meaningful bridges between Eastern and Western musical traditions. Equally significant is his commitment to education, having mentored and inspired generations of young musicians through workshops, masterclasses, and community initiatives.

World Heart Beat Music Academy Honours World-Class Artists and Organisations at the World Heart Beat Awards 2026

London, UK – 21st February 2026: World Heart Beat Music Academy proudly hosted the prestigious World Heart Beat Awards 2026, celebrating world-class artists and organisations whose exceptional contributions have enriched the global cultural landscape. The evening brought together distinguished musicians, cultural leaders, and supporters of the arts, recognising excellence, innovation, and lifelong dedication to music across genres and traditions.

Legendary Tabla Maestro Ustad Tari Khansahb and Sahana Gero MBE Artistic Director of World Heart Beat Music Academy, London presented The Award to Ustad Sarvar Sabri

The Lifetime Achievement Award Was Presented To Renowned Tabla Exponent Ustad Sarvar Sabri (UK) For His Outstanding Contribution To The International Music Scene In The UK

हिंदी फिल्म “हनीमूनाय नमः” एंटरटेनमेंट का पिटारा है, जिसे कई अवॉर्ड से नवाजा गया है नाम की तरह फिल्म की कहानी भी अनोखी और रोचक

मुम्बई.  बॉलीवुड मे आजकल कंटेंट सिनेमा और कुछ हटकर फ़िल्में बनाने की होड़ लगी हुई है. हनीमूनाय नमः भी एक ऐसी ही फिल्म है जो न केवल अपने टाइटल के अनुरूप अलग है बल्कि कहानी भी रोचक है. दरअसल “हनीमूनाय नमः” एक सटायरिकल फ़िल्म है जो समाज में फैली राजनीतिक मौकापरस्ती और जनता की सीधी-सादी सोच को हास्य के ज़रिए दिखाने की कोशिश करती है।

शिवाक्षय एंटरटेनमेंट के बैनर तले नवांकुर फिल्म्स के सहयोग से बनी फिल्म को अक्षय बाफिला और अक्षय देसाई ने प्रोड्यूस किया है जबकि निशांत भारद्वाज ने निर्देशन किया है. फिल्म के सह निर्माता ध्रुव राठौड़, हेमलता भारद्वाज, भास्कर पेठशाली हैं. फिल्म के कलाकारों में अक्षय बाफिला, सोनम ठाकुर, हेमलता भारद्वाज, निशांत भारद्वाज, मीनाक्षी, दीपक गुप्ता, कमल किशोर तिवारी, डी.एस. सिजवाली (सोनू), आलोक वर्मा, राजन पुरी, मोहित शर्मा, जीत जांगिड़, राजेंद्र गोस्वामी, ललित पंत, अमन सिंह राठौर, श्याम लाल शर्मा, दीपक तिरुवा, किंशुक पांडे, अंजलि पारीक, अनुज कुमार, मोहित तिवारी, भास्कर पेठशाली, जसवंत बाफिला, इंद्रजीत बाफिला, हीना बाफिला, अरविंद भटनागर, अमरनाथ सिंह नेगी, नरेश बिष्ट, पंकट कार्की, गीता बिष्ट, चंद्रप्रकाश तत्रारी, कैलाश चन्याल, विनोद कुमार का नाम उल्लेखनीय है. स्क्रीनप्ले और डायलॉग निशांत भारद्वाज ने लिखे हैं  म्यूजिक और बैकग्राउंड म्यूजिक अक्षय बाफिला का है. फिल्म मे कई प्यारे गीत हैं जो कहानी को आगे बढ़ाते हैं. इसमे उत्तराखंड का एक लोकगीत भी शामिल है.

फिल्म की कहानी उत्तराखंड के एक किसान के बेटे मोना की  है, जिसकी शादी पड़ोस के गाँव की लड़की वर्षा से होने वाली है। वह अपने दोस्त, जो अमेरिका में रहता है, को शादी में बुलाता है। दोस्त, आने में असमर्थता जताते हुए, मोना को हनीमून की रस्म ठीक से मनाने की सलाह देता है। इससे पहले कि मोना हनीमून के बारे में और जानकारी माँग पाता, नेटवर्क चले जाने की वजह से कॉल कट जाता है। मोना के लिए एक प्रॉब्लम खड़ी होती है: यह “हनीमून की रस्म” असल में क्या है और इसे कैसे मनाया जाता है? उसके दोस्तों को भी नहीं पता; गाँव में किसी को भी इसके बारे में नहीं पता। जब यह बात मोना की माँ तक पहुँचती है, तो इसका रूप और भी ज़्यादा बदल चुका होता है। पुजारी से पूछने पर पता चलता है कि उसे भी इस रस्म के बारे में कुछ नहीं पता। अब क्या किया जाए? यह बात दुल्हन के परिवार तक पहुंच जाती है। उन्हें पता चलता है कि अगर दूल्हे की हनीमून की रस्म नहीं की गई, तो शादी के बाद दुल्हन की मां मर सकती है, इसलिए वे शादी से मना कर देते हैं। पंचायत बुलाई जाती है, लेकिन पंचायत में भी किसी को इस रस्म के बारे में पता नहीं होता। सब अपने-अपने तरीके से इस पर चर्चा करने लगते हैं। हनीमून की रस्म पूरे राज्य के लिए एक मुद्दा बन जाती है। इसका फ़ायदा उठाकर, परंपरा पार्टी मोना के पिता को एमएलए का कैंडिडेट बनाती है, और सेक्युलर पार्टी वर्षा के पिता को कैंडिडेट बनाती है। मोना परेशान है क्योंकि शादी का टॉपिक इस अफ़रा-तफ़री में पूरी तरह से खो गया है। फ़िल्म कई दिलचस्प और मज़ेदार पलों से गुज़रती है, जो कॉमेडी के ज़रिए हमारे समाज के कई पहलुओं को दिखाती है। यह हमारे समाज में मौजूद पारंपरिक सोच, अंधविश्वास और मासूमियत को दिखाती है।

फिल्म के एग्जीक्यूटिव प्रोड्यूसर ललित कोहली, एडिटर जीत सिंह मेहता, डीओपी पार्थ जोशी/सिनेमो सनी हैं.

 

हिंदी फिल्म “हनीमूनाय नमः” एंटरटेनमेंट का पिटारा है, जिसे कई अवॉर्ड से नवाजा गया है  नाम की तरह फिल्म की कहानी भी अनोखी और रोचक