NEW DELHI: The Centre is planning a mega event to bring together stakeholders from across the media and entertainment sector of BRICS countries as part of its broader World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES).
The initiative, titled ‘BRICS-WAVES Bazaar’, is proposed to be held in August in Mumbai and aims to boost the creative economy. Industry representatives from film, television, animation, gaming, advertising, XR, music, and sound design from around 24 countries are expected to take part in the two-day event.
The event is being planned on the sidelines of the BRICS summit scheduled in September in New Delhi and will feature high-level engagements, including a CEO roundtable and a mega international conference.
“Delegates from across the globe are expected to attend, particularly representatives from the gaming and animation industries. This will be another opportunity to promote and showcase our orange economy, facilitate employment generation…Details and activities to be held are being finalised. The draft is under consideration however in-principle approval to the proposed event has already been accorded,” sources, privy to the development.
WAVES Bazaar is an e-marketplace that connects buyers and sellers, allowing industry professionals to showcase their expertise, connect with clients, and secure collaborations. It was launched as part of WAVES, a global forum organised by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MI&B) to promote innovation, collaboration, and growth in the media and entertainment industry last year.
A conclave is also proposed as part of WAVES Bazaar. Internationally renowned acting schools are expected to be invited, along with premier Indian institutions such as the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and the National School of Drama (NSD).
Film distributors and distribution companies are also expected to participate, especially with growing opportunities in movie dubbing and localisation. With the rise of Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, dubbed content has gained significant traction.
“Dubbed films and series are creating new avenues for content exchange and employment across markets. The WAVES-Bazaar is expected to facilitate job exchanges, partnerships, and collaborative ventures among participating countries,” added sources.
In addition, a BRICS Film Festival is also being planned alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa to further strengthen cultural and cinematic ties.