BHUBANESWAR: Two young talents from Odisha have been selected to participate in the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES-2025), scheduled to take place in Mumbai from May 1 to 4.
Bhagyashree Satpathy and Rishav Mohanty from the state have been chosen among 42 finalists from across the country for the animation filmmaker competition under WAVES, which will serve as a prestigious platform for India’s emerging creative talents.
Bhagyashree, a 22-year-old filmmaker and animation artist from Dharmasala area in Jajpur, is currently pursuing her studies at the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad. Deeply inspired by Indian mythology and regional folklore, her work reimagines traditional narratives with contemporary themes and a bold visual language.
Her project ‘Pasa’ is a concept series that blends mythology with psychological drama, exploring manipulation, gender and control. Bhagyashree has previously directed notable works such as ‘Happy Birthday Tara’ and a documentary film based on Maa Kalijai of Chilika lake.
Another NID Ahmedabad student, Rishav, a resident of Bhubaneswar, has earned his place in the finals with his animation documentary film titled ‘Khatti’.
His work reflects a deep understanding of storytelling and visual narrative, highlighting the potential of animation as a medium for authentic and engaging documentation.
At Waves 2025, the finalists will pitch their projects before an esteemed panel of international judges and top personalities from the global entertainment industry. The competition offers a significant opportunity and top three winners will each receive a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh.
The event is expected to explore the immense economic potential of the country’s animation and VFX industry, where a single animated feature film can generate employment for 100 to 300 professionals.