PM Modi announces historical initiative for India in Mann Ki Baat radio speech for 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a historical initiative to further India’s creative industry on an international level. In his final Mann Ki Baat radio speech for 2024, PM Modi announced that India will conduct the first edition of the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit, or WAVES, from 5-9 February 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.

The summit, under the “Create in India” initiative, aims to make India the world’s destination for content creation. Modi called WAVES a platform like the World Economic Forum, where global leaders, influencers, and creative professionals will assemble to discuss new opportunities and connections.

“This summit will celebrate India’s advancements in animation, gaming, cinema, and entertainment technology,” said the prime minister. He urged participation from all corners of the industry, from regional and mainstream cinema to professionals in gaming and TV production.

Bollywood stars praise PM Modi as he announces WAVES in Mann Ki Baat radio speech for 2024

Bollywood bigwigs Shah Rukh Khan and Akshay Kumar have widely appreciated the initiative. Sharing his excitement on X (formerly Twitter), Shah Rukh Khan called WAVES “an occasion that celebrates creativity and recognizes the economic and cultural might of the Indian entertainment industry.” Khan said he was looking forward to being a part of it, calling it a celebration of India’s soft power.

Akshay Kumar also applauded the initiative, lauding PM Modi’s vision. “This is a wonderful idea. WAVES 2025 will be a fabulous global forum for the entertainment industry to grow together,” he posted.

Other industry stalwarts, including Anil Kapoor, Sanjay Dutt, and Ektaa Kapoor, joined in welcoming the announcement.

It will be a five-day event showcasing India’s innovation and talent. It is opening doors for international collaborations, signifying a new chapter for Indian entertainment in providing opportunities for the young creators as well as the established names.

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