Noida, India: One of the most intellectually stimulating and impactful seminars of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida was held at Marwah Studios on the theme “Is Cinema the Right Medium to Unravel Historic Truths.” The seminar brought together some of the most respected voices from Indian cinema, culture, and public life, reaffirming India’s position as the largest and most influential cinema industry in the world.
The seminar was inaugurated by an eminent panel comprising Jaya Prada, legendary cine star and politician; Charu Shankar, renowned actress; Dr. Abraham Kumar, acclaimed music director from the USA; Mukesh Tyagi, actor and BJP spokesperson; Tarun Bajaj, celebrated casting director; Shabbir Boxwala, renowned producer; and Umesh Shukla, acclaimed film director.
Initiating the seminar, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Festival President of the Global Film Festival Noida, Founder of Marwah Studios, and member of the Executive Body of the Film Federation of India (FFI), said, “Cinema is the most powerful medium of mass communication in India. It has the ability to educate, influence, and awaken society. When handled responsibly, cinema can become a strong tool to present historical narratives, provoke thought, and encourage audiences to explore truth beyond textbooks.”
Sharing her views, Jaya Prada emphasized, “Indian cinema reaches the deepest corners of society. If filmmakers approach history with sincerity, research, and sensitivity, cinema can certainly help people understand historical truths while emotionally connecting them to our cultural roots.”
Charu Shankar said, “Cinema humanizes history. It gives faces, emotions, and voices to events of the past, making them relevant for today’s generation. However, it demands great responsibility from artists and filmmakers.”
Renowned music director Dr. Abraham Kumar from the USA remarked, “Music and cinema together have the power to immortalize history. When truth is supported by strong storytelling and authentic sound, it transcends borders and generations.” Tarun Bajaj highlighted the role of casting, stating, “Authenticity begins with the right representation. Casting plays a crucial role in ensuring that historical characters are portrayed with honesty and depth.”
Producer Shabbir Boxwala said, “Cinema must balance creativity with credibility. While cinematic liberty is important, respect for historical facts builds trust with audiences.” Acclaimed director Umesh Shukla added, “Cinema does not rewrite history; it interprets it. The intent of the filmmaker determines whether cinema enlightens or misleads. Responsible storytelling is the key.”
Concluding the session, Mukesh Tyagi, actor and BJP spokesperson, presented the vote of thanks, appreciating the festival platform for encouraging meaningful dialogue and acknowledging the role of Indian cinema as a cultural ambassador of the nation.
The seminar stood out as a major highlight of the 18th Global Film Festival Noida, reinforcing the belief that Indian cinema—being the biggest cinema industry in the world—has both the power and responsibility to shape narratives, preserve heritage, and contribute to national and global understanding through meaningful storytelling.
