PM Modi to Inaugurate India’s First Media and Entertainment ‘WAVES’ Summit in Mumbai

Mumbai, April 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the inaugural edition of the WAVES Summit — India’s first dedicated global conference focused on the media and entertainment sector — in Mumbai next month. The prestigious event aims to position India as a global content hub and innovation powerhouse in the rapidly evolving creative economy.

The WAVES (World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit) will bring together leading filmmakers, digital content creators, production houses, investors, policy-makers, and media-tech innovators from across the world. Scheduled to be held at the NESCO Convention Centre in Mumbai, the summit will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, live demos, film screenings, and technology showcases.

Announcing the event, officials from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) said that PM Modi’s inaugural address will focus on India’s growing influence in the global media ecosystem and the government’s efforts to support creative industries through innovation, investment, and policy reform.

The summit is expected to attract major global streaming platforms, animation studios, VFX houses, and media-tech startups eager to collaborate with Indian creators. It will also highlight India’s expanding soft power, as Bollywood, regional cinema, OTT platforms, and gaming continue to gain international recognition.

Union Minister for I&B, Anurag Thakur, said that WAVES represents a “historic opportunity” to showcase India’s creative talent to the world and create new economic pathways for artists, entrepreneurs, and young professionals.

The three-day event will include:

• Film & TV industry panels with renowned directors, producers, and actors

• Digital and OTT workshops on AI in content creation, audience analytics, and platform monetization

• Startup pitch sessions for emerging media-tech innovators

• Cultural performances and screenings celebrating India’s diverse storytelling traditions

• Policy roundtables for international collaboration, co-productions, and IP rights reforms

The summit will also witness the launch of several government-backed initiatives to promote skill development, talent incubation, and infrastructure support for the media and entertainment sector. A dedicated "Creative India Pavilion” will display state-wise opportunities for film production, incentives, and international filming locations.

As the host city, Mumbai — often called the entertainment capital of India — is expected to gain global attention through this landmark summit. Hotels, event venues, and studios across the city are already gearing up to welcome international guests and delegations.

Industry leaders have welcomed PM Modi’s leadership in highlighting the economic and cultural significance of the entertainment industry. With India's digital media consumption among the highest in the world, experts say the WAVES summit could act as a game-changer for expanding India's creative exports.

With the WAVES Summit 2025, India is ready to make a splash on the global entertainment stage — and the world will be watching.