FFI Announces The Opening Of Applications For India’s Entry To The 98th Academy Awards – OSCARS

Mumbai, India, July 11, 2025 – The Film Federation of India (FFI), the parent body of all leading film associations in India, is pleased to announce the opening of applications for India’s entry to the Oscars this year. The executive committee of FFI, in its managing committee meeting, has decided to invite films for submission from August 15, 2025, to September 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

The FFI will nominate a Chairman of the Jury, along with senior qualified individuals from the creative field, who will be part of the jury. The final entry will be decided by a vote after all screenings are completed, and the winner will be announced on September 28, 2025.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

– Films must be released in India between October 1, 2024, and September 30, 2025.

– Films must have a minimum run of seven consecutive days in a commercial motion picture theater.

– Content must be 60% in local dialect of any Indian language.

– Proof of release with a minimum one-week run in theaters in India is required.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

– Artist and technician list and synopsis

– Subtitled version in English

– Details of film festival entries or awards received for the film

– Website or page of the film

– Format details will be informed

PAYMENT DETAILS

– Payment of Rs. 1,25,000/- (One Lakh Twenty-Five Thousand Only) + GST Extra.

IMPORTANT DATES

– Application deadline: September 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

– Final entry announcement: September 28, 2025.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Interested film producers are requested to send their film details to:

Film Federation of India

B-3, 3rd Floor, Everest Building

Tardeo Road, Mumbai – 400 034

Contact: Mr. Anupam Dasgupta, Secretary (96190 79362)

Mr. Mahendra M. Jadhav, Asst. Secretary (063693 87186)

Telephone: 022-2351 5531

 

FFI Announces The Opening Of Applications For India’s Entry To The 98th Academy Awards – OSCARS

WOW Vastra Takes over the World at Prestigious Cannes Film Festival 2025

Rachanaa Jain who is a British Singer and Actress is shining in a Stunning Peacock Royale Lehenga with 6 Metres dramatic train along with Gold Temple Jewellery on the red carpet at Cannes Film Festival designed by Smrutha Santhosh, Founder of Styling by Wow Vastra.

This lehenga is designed as a tribute to heritage and divinity, the ensemble captivated the global stage with its bold narrative and meticulous artistry. Featuring a dramatic train made from cruelty-free artificial peacock feathers, the look embodied symbolism, elegance, and storytelling.

Styling by Wow Vastra the Couture Label has the tagline of “The Complete Look”. This philosophy defines Styling by Wow Vastra. Smrutha’s signature niche lies in creating Indo-Western outfits using authentic Indian fabrics — especially silks like Kanchivaram and Banarasi — and transforming them into silhouettes that blend tradition with modernity. From concept to completion, Smrutha offers head-to-toe styling, curating complete looks that include custom outfits, jewelry, and accessories — all available for purchase through her brand.

Styling by Wow Vastra made an unforgettable red-carpet debut. Bridging traditional South Indian craftsmanship with modern international flair, Smrutha unveiled a masterpiece that was as much about identity as it was about fashion.

The creation was a labour of deep craftsmanship:

• 240 hours of handwoven Kanchivaram silk
• 250 hours of intricate Aari embroidery with peacock and temple motifs
• 150 hours dedicated to feather artistry
• Antique-style temple jewelry engraved with goddess icons
• Every detail reflected reverence for culture, while embracing the language of global couture.

“I didn’t want to make just a dress,” says Smrutha. “I wanted to tell a story — one that honours our roots while imagining our future.”

Her clients don’t just wear outfits — they wear an experience, one rooted in culture and elevated by style.

Beyond Cannes, Smrutha also designed costumes for Rachanaa Jain’s upcoming international film “Bling Power,” which is a fusion of Bollywood and Hollywood reinforcing her growing influence at the intersection of fashion and cinema.

For her own Cannes appearance, Smrutha wore a contemporary-draped Ahimsa silk Kanchivaram saree, styled with structured shoulders and antique temple jewelry — a striking balance of strength, sustainability, and softness. Her look paid homage to timeless Indian craftsmanship while celebrating the empowered global woman.

But behind the glamour lies a deeper mission.

Through Wow Vastra, Smrutha collaborates with women artisans from rural and underrepresented communities, many of whom are rebuilding their lives after personal hardships. By offering dignified employment, skill development, and creative collaboration, she ensures that each garment carries the hands and hearts of resilient women.

“This is not just fashion,” she says. “It’s purpose-driven design.”

As Styling by Wow Vastra steps onto the global stage, it’s clear: this is South Indian culture not referenced, but leading. Rooted in tradition, designed for the future, and styled with soul — this is couture with a conscience.

Connect with Styling by Wow Vastra:

www.wowvastra.com

Instagram: @stylingbywowvastra

• WhatsApp: +44 7894 533418

WOW Vastra Takes over the World at  Prestigious Cannes Film Festival 2025

Mohammed Al Sharqi Witnesses The Launch Of The Fujairah International Oud Forum With The Participation Of International Artists And Musicians

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, witnessed the launch of the “Fujairah International Oud Forum”, organised by the Fujairah Fine Arts Academy from 5 to 7 May 2025, under the slogan “One Oud, Multiple Cultures”, at the Fujairah Creative Cultural Centre.

His Highness the Crown Prince of Fujairah stressed the importance of the forum in embodying the Emirate’s vision of supporting culture and arts, and enhancing its presence in regional and international forums in these sectors, in addition to honouring the distinguished artistic experiences at the level of the state and the world, pointing to the role of music in enhancing communication between peoples.

His Highness noted the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, and His Highness’s support for cultural and artistic activities in the emirate, based on its role in building the promotion of cultural openness among humans, and consolidating the position of the UAE as a global centre for creativity and coexistence.

The launch ceremony of the forum included a huge musical performance presented by an orchestra of 50 musicians of multiple nationalities, who presented a charming musical watch that mixed different styles such as Spanish flamenco, rock, and oriental Arabic music, along with Indian, Uzbek, Azerbaijani and Turkish styles, in a scene that reflects the spirit of diversity and global cultural openness.

On its second and third days, the forum will also witness individual and group presentations, in addition to workshops and seminars highlighting the history of the oud instrument and its various schools, in addition to hosting three of the most prominent Oud makers in the Arab world and Turkey, to showcase their skills and exchange experiences with the participants.

The event is also an exhibition dedicated to artisans and Oud makers from different countries, which enhances opportunities for artistic and cultural exchange. The forum is an important annual station for artists and those interested in oriental music, and emphasises Fujairah’s commitment to investing in culture as part of its comprehensive development vision.

The ceremony was attended by H.E. Dr. Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, Director of the Office of His Highness the Crown Prince of Fujairah, His Excellency Ali Obaid Al Hafiti, General Manager of the Fujairah Fine Arts Academy, and a number of prominent figures in the field of music, culture and the arts.

Mohammed Al Sharqi Witnesses The Launch Of The Fujairah International Oud Forum With The Participation Of International Artists And Musicians

Sandeep Marwah Becomes First Indian To Receive Eighth Honor In British Parliament

London, UK: In a moment of pride and recognition, Sandeep Marwah, an eminent figure in global media, arts, and cultural diplomacy, has once again been honored at the British Parliament. This marks the eighth time Marwah has been recognized at this prestigious venue, solidifying his contributions to international cultural exchange. He was bestowed with the esteemed Bharat Gaurav Award at the House of Lords, British Parliament, London, UK.

The award was presented by Lord Raj Loomba, Commander of the British Empire, in acknowledgment of Marwah’s unwavering dedication to fostering cultural harmony and strengthening relations between India and the rest of the world, including the United Kingdom, through the universal language of art, media, and culture.

Sandeep Marwah has long been an advocate for the arts as a powerful medium to unite people beyond borders. Through his various initiatives, he has continuously worked to promote collaboration between Indian and international creative industries, using cinema, television, fashion, and performing arts as vehicles for diplomacy.

Accepting the award, Marwah expressed his heartfelt gratitude, stating:” I am deeply humbled to receive this honor at the British Parliament for the eighth time. This award is not just a personal recognition, but a testament to the power of art and media in bridging cultures, fostering friendships, and building lasting international relationships. The United Kingdom has always held a special place in my heart, and I look forward to strengthening our shared artistic and cultural heritage even further.”

Marwah, the founder of Noida Film City and Marwah Studios, has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s media landscape. His educational initiatives, international collaborations, and leadership in film and television production have not only put India on the global creative map but have also opened doors for thousands of aspiring artists and filmmakers.

Over the years, Marwah’s work has been recognized by various governments, cultural organizations, and international bodies. His contributions include: Establishing Noida Film City, which has become a hub for global media production. Founding AAFT (Asian Academy of Film & Television), one of the most sought-after institutions for media education. Serving as a cultural bridge between India and several nations, promoting artistic collaborations through film festivals, media conclaves, and bilateral cultural agreements.

Sandeep Marwah Becomes First Indian To Receive Eighth Honor In British Parliament

Indo-Equatorial Guinea Film And Cultural Forum Launched In New Delhi

New Delhi, 15th Jan,2025: The Indo-Equatorial Guinea Film and Cultural Forum was officially launched in a distinguished ceremony hosted at the Embassy of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea in New Delhi. The event was graced by the presence of H.E. Manuel Mbela Bama Ndong, Ambassador of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea to India, in collaboration with the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI).

The forum aims to strengthen the cultural and artistic ties between India and Equatorial Guinea. Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Manuel Mbela Bama Ndong emphasized the importance of fostering mutual understanding and collaboration through cultural exchanges.

Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and ICMEI, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “The purpose of the Indo-Equatorial Guinea Film and Cultural Forum is to build bridges of understanding and cooperation between the people of India and Equatorial Guinea through the universal language of art and culture.”

This new forum is expected to play a vital role in promoting cross-cultural interaction, fostering goodwill, and opening avenues for collaboration in the fields of cinema, arts, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

The event marked a significant milestone in strengthening diplomatic and cultural relations, further solidifying the shared vision of unity and creativity. H.E. Manuel Mbela Bama Ndong, Ambassador of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea to India is being presented with Patronship of the form and Dr Sandeep Marwah will be the Chair of the forum.

Indo-Equatorial Guinea Film And Cultural Forum Launched In New Delhi