WAVES 2025 Summit begins in Mumbai

• 01 May 2025

Why in News? 

The Government of India begins the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.  

 Key Points 

• WAVES 2025: 
  • It is a global summit for the media and entertainment (M&E) industry, organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.  
  • It aims to promote dialogue, innovation, and collaboration across the media and entertainment (M&E) sector, boosting India's role as a global hub for digital content and innovation. 
• Four Core Pillars of the Summit: 
  • WAVES 2025 is built around four key thematic tracks: 
    • Broadcasting & Infotainment 
    • AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics & Extended Reality) 
    • Digital Media & Innovation 
    • Films 
  • These tracks cover a wide spectrum from traditional broadcasting to cutting-edge technologies such as generative AI, virtual reality, and the metaverse. 
• Create in India Challenge & The Creatosphere: 
  • A key attraction is the “Create in India Challenge”, which received over 85,000 entries, including 1,100 from abroad. 
  • After a rigorous selection process, 750 finalists will showcase their talent at the Creatosphere, a dedicated exhibition space. 
  • The Creatosphere includes: 
    • Masterclasses and workshops 
    • A gaming arena 
    • The Grand Finale of the challenge 
    • The WAVES CIC Awards 
• Global Media Dialogue and Thought Leadership: 
  • On 2 May, the Global Media Dialogue will bring together policymakers, media professionals, and industry leaders to discuss international collaboration, media ethics, and innovation. 
  • The Thought Leaders Track will host global CEOs and experts for plenary and breakout sessions, focusing on strategic partnerships and emerging trends. 
• WaveXcelerator:  
  • The WaveXcelerator platform will connect startups with investors and mentors through live pitch sessions. 
  • It aims to nurture innovation and accelerate the growth of India’s media and entertainment startup ecosystem. 
• WAVES Bazaar and Viewing Room Library: 
  • The WAVES Bazaar will serve as a marketplace for content creators and media professionals to explore collaboration and content trade. 
  • The Viewing Room Library will screen 100 curated films from eight countries, including India, the USA, Germany, Sri Lanka, and the UAE. 
• Bharat Pavilion:  
  • The Bharat Pavilion will feature four immersive storytelling zones — Shruti, Kriti, Drishti, and Creator’s Leap — under the theme “Kala to Code”. 
  • These zones celebrate India's transition from traditional arts to digital creativity and global cultural engagement. 
• Technology, Innovation & Community Media: 
  • The Exhibition Pavilion will showcase the latest technological innovations in the media and entertainment sector. 
  • A National Sammelan on Community Radio will highlight the role of local radio in empowering communities and amplifying grassroots voices. 
• Cultural Showcase: 
  • WAVES 2025 also features a cultural programme with Indian and international performances, celebrating the power of media to foster cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.