Remembering Former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee - Delhi - Delhi ID1669082

New Delhi, August 16, 2026: Former Prime Minister of India Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee is remembered with deep respect and admiration for his remarkable contribution to the nation, his statesmanship, his vision for India, and his lifelong association with literature, art and culture.

In a significant initiative to honour his enduring legacy, the Asian Academy of Arts (AAA) and the International Chamber of Media & Entertainment Industry (ICMEI) instituted the “Atal Bihari Vajpayee National Award for Promotion of Art & Culture” at AAFT on 17th August 2018. It was among the earliest national recognitions instituted in his name to acknowledge outstanding contributions towards the promotion of art and culture.

The prestigious award has now completed eight successful editions, honouring distinguished personalities who have made noteworthy contributions to the creative and cultural landscape of India.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of Marwah Studios and ICMEI, said, “Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji was not only a great statesman but also a visionary leader, poet and lover of art and culture. His life continues to inspire generations. We at Marwah Studios felt that his ideology, values and vision should be carried forward through meaningful activities in the fields of art, culture, education, media and international cooperation.”

Dr. Marwah further informed that the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Forum at Marwah Studios has been created with the objective of highlighting and promoting the ideology, thoughts and vision of the former Prime Minister. The Forum aims to create greater awareness among young people about Shri Vajpayee Ji’s contribution to nation-building, democracy, education, literature, culture and international relations.

“Through the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Forum, we want the younger generation to understand the values of nationalism, harmony, dialogue, cultural appreciation and inclusive development that Atal Ji represented. His thoughts remain relevant and can continue to guide India towards a stronger and more culturally vibrant future,” added Dr. Sandeep Marwah.

The institution of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee National Award for Promotion of Art & Culture and the establishment of the Forum at Marwah Studios reflect a continuing commitment to preserve and disseminate the ideals of one of India’s most respected leaders and to strengthen the role of art and culture in nation-building.