India’s public broadcaster Prasar Bharati has launched its ambitious streaming platform, WAVES OTT, at the 55th India International Film Festival (IFFI) in Goa. The platform, described as a cultural bridge for Indians worldwide, promises clean, family-friendly entertainment spanning over 12 languages and 10+ genres.
Launched by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, WAVES aims to connect Indians to their roots while offering modern entertainment. Prasar Bharati Chairman Navneet Sehgal emphasized the broadcaster’s responsibility to provide inclusive content, including news, games, and cultural programming.
“As the national broadcaster, it is our duty to create clean family entertainment and connect with all sections of society,” Sehgal remarked.
CEO Gaurav Dwivedi added, “We must make information and content available to audiences across our large country. WAVES will cater to Indians who wish to stay connected to their heritage, even when far from home.”
Content Highlights
- Massive Library: WAVES offers over 10,000 films and 50,000 hours of content, showcasing India’s cultural heritage.
- Exclusive Originals:
- Fauji 2.0: A modern adaptation of the 1980s iconic show that launched Shah Rukh Khan’s career, featuring Gauhar Khan and Vicky Jain.
- Kakbhushundi Ramayana: A fresh retelling of the epic, blending global research with storytelling aimed at young audiences.
Renowned producer Sandeep Singh praised Doordarshan’s legacy, calling it “an honour” to have programs featured on this platform. Similarly, Shiv Sagar, grandson of Ramayan creator Ramanand Sagar, revealed extensive research behind the new Ramayana adaptation.
Platform Features
- Multilingual Content: WAVES supports 12+ Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Kannada, and Assamese.
- Diverse Genres: Offers 10+ genres, including infotainment, historical dramas, and epics.
- Integrated Services:
- Free-to-play gaming.
- Radio streaming.
- 65 live TV channels.
- E-commerce through the ONDC platform.
WAVES is designed to engage audiences who lack access to cable television and wish to explore India’s rich traditions. From its focus on clean entertainment to leveraging modern technology for accessibility, WAVES reflects an international outlook while remaining rooted in Indian culture.
Prasar Bharati’s WAVES OTT is a game-changer in India’s streaming ecosystem, blending tradition and innovation. With its extensive content library and inclusive offerings, WAVES is set to redefine family entertainment while serving as a cultural hub for Indians worldwide.
Credit: This article is based on reports from Prasar Bharati’s official statement and IFFI 2024 announcements.
Key Highlights:
- Prasar Bharati launched its streaming platform WAVES OTT at IFFI 2024 in Goa.
- The platform features 10,000 films, 50,000 hours of content, and programs in 12+ languages.
- Originals like Fauji 2.0 and Kakbhushundi Ramayana highlight WAVES’ cultural and modern appeal.
- WAVES offers additional features like gaming, radio streaming, and e-commerce.