India showcases its creative power at WAVES 2025 summit

On May 1, 2025, the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) began in Mumbai, showcasing India's growing influence in the global media and entertainment industry. The event, initiated by the Government of India, brings together over 100,000 registrants including more than 1,100 international participants, along with prominent figures from film, technology, and entertainment sectors. Key speakers include Bollywood icons and global tech leaders, highlighting the diverse representation of talent and innovation at the summit. The event includes a variety of programs focused on collaboration, digital innovation, and cultural exchange. In his keynote address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s potential to become a global creative powerhouse, reflecting on the country’s rich storytelling traditions. He stated that India is primed to create content not only for its vast market but also for the world. Modi's remarks underlined the significance of India's entertainment sector, which is projected to become a $50 billion opportunity by 2029. The summit's theme, 'Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries,' reflects this vision of global collaboration in creative industries. The summit features various initiatives such as the 'Create in India Challenge,' which has drawn 85,000 participants. The challenge aims to uncover emerging talents who will showcase their work at the event's dedicated space called the Creatosphere. In addition, several tech companies have partnered with the newly established Indian Institute of Creative Technology to support training and innovation in animation, gaming, and digital arts. This institute is set to play a vital role in the development of the future workforce in the media sector. As the summit continues over the next four days, there are numerous events planned, including masterclasses, workshops, and discussions aimed at enhancing dialogue among industry stakeholders. The WAVES Bazaar also opens as a marketplace for collaboration and networking among media professionals. Overall, WAVES 2025 is set to mark a significant milestone in India's journey within the global media landscape.