India has always excelled in the art of storytelling, captivating timeless epics such as Ramayana and Mahabharata. Our stories expand beyond the story, serve as a cultural cornerstone, how we recognize the world, express our creativity, and inspire generations of artists and visionaries. This inherent passion for storytelling has evolved into a powerful creative aspiration. This is currently driving the emergence of India as a global media powerhouse.
First World Audiovisual and Entertainment Summit (Wave), From May 1-4, we will place India at the heart of global creativity. Conceptualized under the leadership of Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, Waves is a transformative move that redefines the landscape of media and entertainment (M&E). As India’s M&E industry approaches £2.7 trillion, wave 2025 shows its intention to lead creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Indian content creation environment has shifted from traditional media to the prosperity of the digital-first ecosystem, expanding global connections through streaming services, social media and emerging technologies. Government initiatives such as incentives for Indian foreign film production, joint production agreements and the Film Facilitation Office (FFO) are strengthening India’s position as a priority destination for global creators.
Waves 2025 represents the dawn of a new era in the Indian media and entertainment industry. The Summit will promote an environment of entertainment creation, distribution and experience by bringing innovators, policy makers, artists and industry leaders to industry leaders around the world.
At the heart of this transformation are initiatives like Wavex 2025 and Waves Bazaar. Wavex 2025 will bolster startups working in emerging technologies such as games, animation, enhanced reality (XR), generator AI, and next-generation content platforms. The initiative will create a launchpad for startups to showcase their ideas, receive mentorship and secure funding through interactions with venture capitalists and celebrity angel investors. Waves Bazaar, meanwhile, acts as a dynamic electronic marketplace designed to connect creators, buyers and sellers. With over 5,500 buyers, 2,000 sellers and 1,000 registered projects spanning films, television, games, advertising, and more, The Bazaar is a space for seamless collaboration and opportunity discovery. AI-powered matchmaking allows projects and experts to find the right connections, promote innovation and drive the growth of the creative economy. These platforms are more than event-driven. These are transformative ecosystems that continue to influence the M&E sector since the waves ended. This will be another milestone in India’s digital public infrastructure.
Indian youth – our biggest demographic advantage – can benefit deeply from the Waves initiative. The average age is 29, and India is not only the youngest country in the world, but it is also the most lively in terms of creativity and innovation. Waves 2025 puts youth at the forefront of its vision and creates pathways for skill development, entrepreneurship and global collaboration.
The Creative Challenge of India is an example of this commitment. With around 1,00,000 registrations, including over 1,100 international participants, this challenge brings together a diverse pool of talents enthusiastic about showcasing their creativity. Currently, finalists who are part of Creatosphere receive an unparalleled opportunity to connect with industry leaders, take part in master classes and gain global exposure.
Furthermore, the establishment of India’s Institute of Creative Technologies (IICT) in Mumbai marks a monumental investment in the future of Indian youth. As a centre of global excellence for skill development and innovation, IICT bridges the gap between creativity and technology and ensures young Indians have the expertise to meet the growing demands of the M&E industry.
The summit will also feature global media dialogue, bringing together an unprecedented gathering of global leaders, policymakers, artists and industry experts. This dialogue is not just about discussion. It is about action – developing strategies for international collaboration, ethical practices, and innovation. The planned interaction between CEO and industry stakeholders and PM is expected to set the tone of impactful partnerships that will benefit India for years to come.
Waves 2025 is a leap towards realizing India’s vision of Viksit Bharat, a developed country that leads the world in creativity and innovation. By promoting diversity, promoting technology and strengthening youth, it positions India as a talented hub capable of sustainable development in a creative economy.
This event is an enhancement of the endless possibilities the creative industry has to offer. It’s an opportunity to showcase unparalleled talent, technical talent and cultural richness. It is a testament to India’s vision to redefine the global creative ecosystem through the confluence of tradition and technology.
L Murugan is the Minister of State for information and broadcasting and parliamentary issues. The view expressed is personal
