Baku: : The city of Baku witnessed a significant cultural milestone with the inauguration of the Indo Azerbaijan Cultural Forum Chapter, under the auspices of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI). In a statement during the launch, ICMEI President Dr. Sandeep Marwah highlighted the transformative power of art and culture, emphasizing their role in shaping opinions, instilling values, and bridging experiences across time and space.

The event marked the beginning of a new cultural exchange and collaboration era between India and Azerbaijan. Dr. Marwah expressed his enthusiasm, “Art & Culture influence society by changing opinions, instilling values, and translating experiences across space and time.”

Manish Shah of Walkabout Group MMC Baku has been appointed as the Honorary President of this Chapter. In his acceptance speech, Shah expressed his commitment to the Chapter’s growth and promotion, stating, “I am pleased to take on this responsibility and, with Dr. Marwah’s guidance, I am confident we will establish a remarkable presence in a short period.”

The launch event saw the presence of prominent figures such as Ziya Agha, Oksana Rasulova, Olga Eremina, Shalala Rustamova, Srujana Chandra, Shirinova Iilama, Sevinj Jalilova, Srinivas Rao Chandra, Rauf Shakhaliyev, among others. Their attendance underscored the significance of this cultural initiative.

During the inaugural meeting, several key programs aimed at fostering closer ties between India and Azerbaijan were discussed and finalized. These include: A visit to India by a group of Azerbaijani women. An Azerbaijani theatre show in New Delhi. The presentation of an AAFT scholarship to a deserving student from Azerbaijan. An Indian Film Festival in Baku.

The event concluded with Dr. Sandeep Marwah being honored by the Art and Culture Fraternity of Azerbaijan for his outstanding contributions to the field. The special get-together served as a celebration of this new chapter in cultural cooperation and mutual appreciation.