By Approach Bollywood Staff
April 9, 2025
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has hailed the upcoming World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) as a transformative platform for Indian artists, particularly those in Bollywood and beyond. Speaking at the News18 Rising Bharat Summit in New Delhi today, the PM emphasized that WAVES will empower Indian creators to showcase their talent and take their content to international audiences, cementing India’s position as a global hub for entertainment and creativity.
Set to take place from May 1 to 4, 2025, in Mumbai—the heart of India’s film industry—WAVES is being positioned as a landmark event, comparable to the World Economic Forum in Davos or the Cannes Film Festival. The summit will bring together filmmakers, musicians, digital creators, and industry leaders from over 100 countries, fostering collaboration and innovation in the audio-visual and entertainment sectors.
“WAVES will provide a platform for Indian artists to create, connect, and conquer the global stage,” PM Modi said during his address. “This is a moment for our talent to shine, and for India to lead the way in the creative economy.” The announcement aligns with the government’s recent launch of a $1 billion Creators’ Fund, aimed at bolstering the creator economy and nurturing emerging talent nationwide.
For Bollywood, the summit promises a significant leap forward. Industry insiders view WAVES as a gateway to expand Indian cinema’s reach beyond its traditional audience. “This could pave the way for co-productions, international releases, and a stronger presence at global film festivals,” said a prominent Mumbai-based producer who spoke on condition of anonymity. “It’s Bollywood’s chance to compete on the world stage.”
The event has already sparked enthusiasm among top media CEOs, with a special roundtable chaired by PM Modi scheduled during the summit. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently highlighted Mumbai’s role as the “entertainment capital of India,” making it the perfect host for WAVES. “Just as Cannes is synonymous with cinema, Mumbai will become the permanent home for this global summit,” he said.
Bollywood stars and creators are equally thrilled. “This is a proud moment for us,” a well-known actor told Approach Bollywood. “The world is ready to see what Indian artists can do, and WAVES will be the launchpad.” The summit’s emphasis on digital content also promises to spotlight India’s thriving community of online creators, many of whom draw inspiration from Bollywood’s rich storytelling legacy.
Backed by the government and fueled by a vision to rival global platforms, WAVES could redefine India’s creative landscape. For Bollywood, it’s more than just a summit—it’s a stepping stone to global prominence. As the countdown to May begins, the industry awaits with bated breath to see how this ambitious initiative unfolds.
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