The “Reel Making” challenge at the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 has seen an extraordinary response, with 3,379 entries pouring in from across India and 20 countries. This overwhelming participation underscores the growing influence of India’s media and entertainment sector and its increasing appeal as a global content creation hub.
Launched as a key initiative under WAVES 2025, the competition aligns with the Government of India’s “Create in India” vision, empowering digital creators and filmmakers to showcase their talent on an international stage. The challenge has drawn participants not just from major metropolitan centers but also from some of India’s most remote and culturally rich regions, including Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, Kargil and Leh in Ladakh, Shopian in Kashmir, Port Blair in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Kasaragod in Kerala. This nationwide storytelling surge reflects India’s deep-rooted creative traditions and the rapid rise of its digital creator economy.
The challenge has also attracted entries from international participants across a diverse set of countries, including Afghanistan, Albania, the United States, the UAE, Germany, and Australia, among others. This level of engagement highlights India’s growing reputation in the global entertainment space and the significance of WAVES as a premier platform for emerging content creators.
Participants in the competition have been given two themes to explore: “Viksit Bharat,” which highlights India’s advancements in technology and infrastructure, and “India @ 2047,” an aspirational vision of the nation’s progress in the coming decades. Through short reels of 30 to 60 seconds, contestants are weaving narratives that showcase India’s journey of innovation and its potential for the future.
Winners of the Reel Making challenge will receive unparalleled opportunities, including an exclusive invitation to a Meta-hosted event and a masterclass in 2025, all-expenses-paid access to WAVES 2025, and the prestigious honor of having their work showcased in the WAVES Hall of Fame and on official digital platforms. Additionally, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will support finalists in competing at international-level content creator competitions, ensuring their work receives the global recognition it deserves.
WAVES 2025 is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to elevate India’s creative economy to new heights and establish the country as a leading global destination for media, entertainment, and content creation. The summit will serve as a gathering point for industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to discuss emerging trends, forge new collaborations, and reinforce India’s position as a powerhouse of creativity.
With the challenge witnessing participation from across the world and nearly every corner of India, it stands as a testament to the country’s rich storytelling heritage and dynamic media landscape. As the digital content revolution continues to reshape the entertainment industry, India is not just keeping pace but leading the way, proving that the nation’s creators are ready to make their mark on the global stage.
