The Waves Entertainment Summit will be held in Mumbai from May 1 to May 4. The idea was envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi way back in 2019 envisaging Indian cinema as a “silent force” of global influence. At the Rising Bharat Summit, PM Modi was quoted saying, “We have a vibrant film, podcast, and gaming industry.
We have decided to take it to the next level by the mantra of Create in India through the WAVES platform," he said. “Films, podcasts, AR, and VR are a critical industry, and Create in India will invite artists from around the world." “I would also urge my friends from Network18 to come forward and promote this WAVES platform," said the PM.
WAVES 2025 brings a bold new phase of soft power diplomacy, focusing on transformative and technology-driven partnerships. Innovation in this segment is bound to create a new buzz for foreign policy tie-ups, carried forward on the wings of emerging tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Virtual Reality (VR), and immersive content ecosystems. At the heart of WAVES 2025 lies its evocative tagline: “Connecting Creators, Connecting Countries”, a bold declaration of India’s intent to reposition itself as a global M&E powerhouse.
As a summit that seeks to reimagine communication diplomacy, one of its most awaited outcomes is the WAVES Declaration, a visionary charter that could reshape the media discourse globally. WAVES 2025 is designed to be a complete experience. The Global Media Dialogue brings together ministers and top policymakers from around the world to exchange ideas.
The Thought Leaders Track will host key sessions exploring future trends and challenges in media. In the Exhibition Zone, companies will showcase the latest in gaming, animation, VR, and AI. The WAVES Bazaar will act as a meeting ground for buyers and sellers to find the right collaborators.
WaveXcelerator will give startups a chance to pitch live and attract investors..
Entertainment
WAVES Entertainment Summit to take place from 1st to 4th May 2025: Here’s how Indian cinema can influence a global audience

At the Rising Bharat Summit, PM Modi was quoted saying, “We have a vibrant film, podcast, and gaming industry. We have decided to take it to the next level.”