Mumbai, 3 May 2025 – The vibrant heart of India’s entertainment industry pulsed with renewed energy on the third day of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai, as the Motion Picture Association (MPA) unveiled a landmark report spotlighting the immense economic and cultural value of India’s film, television, and streaming sectors.
Gracing the occasion, Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, shared heartfelt words of appreciation for the global recognition Indian cinema has garnered in recent years. Films like RRR and Baahubali, he noted, have not only achieved box office success but have also built cultural bridges, proving that Indian stories resonate deeply with global audiences.
Dr. Murugan reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to nurturing a “creator-first” ecosystem—one that prioritizes artists, storytellers, and innovators. With policies designed to support production, offer financial incentives, and strengthen intellectual property rights, he emphasized the urgent need to protect creative work in a rapidly digitizing world. He expressed hope for deeper collaboration with the MPA in shaping a secure, globally respected creative industry.
Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the MPA, echoed this sentiment with warmth and optimism, describing India’s entertainment economy as being at a “pivotal moment.” He highlighted that the sector currently supports 2.6 million jobs and contributes over $60 billion to the economy, underlining the significant role it plays not just in culture but also in livelihoods and national growth.
Rivkin praised India’s unmatched storytelling talent, advanced visual effects capabilities, and its growing reputation as a hub for global content creation. He noted the close alignment between the MPA’s mission and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a flourishing creative economy.
The session concluded on a hopeful note with a video presentation showcasing the report’s key findings, reflecting a strong, united vision for the future—one shaped by innovation, inclusion, and international cooperation.
In a world increasingly shaped by stories, WAVES 2025 served as a poignant reminder that India’s voice continues to rise, not only in box offices but in hearts across the globe.