NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launched the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 at Mumbai’s Jio World Convention Centre, describing it as a transformative initiative that brings together global storytellers, innovators, and policymakers under one roof.

In his keynote speech to a packed auditorium of delegates from more than 100 countries, the Prime Minister said, “Today, artists, innovators, investors, and policymakers from over 100 nations have come together. We are laying the foundation for a global ecosystem of talent and creativity. WAVES is a truly global platform that belongs to every artist and creator.”

Held under the theme “Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries”, the summit seeks to establish India as a global hub for the creative economy. The four-day event is a first-of-its-kind effort to showcase India’s potential in film, digital media, animation, gaming, immersive technologies (AVGC-XR), and artificial intelligence.
WAVES 2025 is projected to help unlock a $50 billion opportunity for India’s media and entertainment industry by 2029.
Reflecting on India’s growing cultural imprint, PM Modi highlighted how Indian cinema continues to spread India’s essence worldwide. “From Raj Kapoor’s legacy in Russia to Satyajit Ray’s acclaim at Cannes, and RRR’s Oscar win, Indian films have carried the soul of the country across borders,” he said.
He also praised Indian cinematic icons for their artistic contributions: “Whether it’s Guru Dutt’s poetic storytelling, AR Rahman’s musical genius, or Rajamouli’s grand narratives, these stories have touched generations. Just as a mother dreams for her child, the creative world dreams for an entire era.”
A major highlight of the summit is the inaugural Global Media Dialogue (GMD), which brings together ministers and dignitaries from 25 nations to explore international collaborations in creative industries.
The WAVES Bazaar, another key attraction, is a global e-marketplace featuring over 6,100 buyers, 5,200 sellers, and 2,100 creative projects. It aims to enable partnerships, deals, and cross-border networking for creators and companies.
PM Modi is also scheduled to visit the Creatosphere, which will showcase talent selected from the 32 “Create in India Challenges” launched last year. The initiative attracted over one lakh participants. He will further tour the Bharat Pavilion, a curated display of India’s storytelling legacy and digital innovation.
Spanning four days from May 1 to May 4, WAVES 2025 includes 42 plenary sessions, 39 breakout discussions, and 32 masterclasses. These will cover sectors like OTT, broadcasting, AVGC-XR, films, and digital media.
With participation from more than 90 countries, over 10,000 delegates, 1,000 creators, 300+ companies, and 350+ startups, WAVES 2025 is being hailed as a major step toward boosting India’s global presence in media and entertainment.
The summit reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of using India’s creative talent, technological innovation and cultural richness to shape a stronger future for the country in the global digital economy.