Waves OTT Launched By Prasar Bharati At IFFI: A New Platform For Diverse Indian Content

Prasar Bharati has introduced its new OTT platform, Waves, at the International Film Festival of India in Goa. This launch marks a significant development for India's entertainment sector. Dr. Pramod Sawant, the Chief Minister of Goa, expressed his excitement about the diverse content available on Waves, which includes films and shows in multiple languages such as Konkani.

Waves aims to be a comprehensive OTT service, offering content in over 12 languages including Hindi, English, and Bengali. It covers more than 10 genres like infotainment and provides services such as video on demand, live TV streaming with 65 channels, and gaming. The platform also integrates apps for video and gaming content and offers educational materials like test preparation tutorials.

Shri Sanjay Jaju from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting highlighted that Waves aligns with India's Digital India vision. The platform's collaboration with BharatNet ensures it reaches rural audiences, bridging the digital divide in media and entertainment.

The platform is designed to cater to diverse tastes across different demographics. Under its Content Acquisition Policy 2024, Prasar Bharati has curated a varied lineup to appeal to urban, metro, middle India, and NRI audiences seeking Indian or international content.

Waves features an array of films and shows set to premiere at IFFI. These include "Roll No.52," a student film from Annapurna Film Studio; "Fauji 2.0," a modern take on Shahrukh Khan's classic show; and Guneet Monga Kapoor's "Kicking Balls," addressing child marriage issues. Other notable screenings include "Jackson Halt" by Neetu Chandra and "Jaiye Aap Kahan Jayenge" by Sanjay Mishra.

The platform also hosts live events like Prabhu Shriram Lalla Aarti from Ayodhya and Mann ki Baat by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Additionally, it will broadcast the US Premier League Cricket Tournament starting November 22. A cyber security awareness campaign is also part of Waves' offerings.

Expanding Content Formats

Waves extends its reach with live channels such as Doordarshan and Akashvani, alongside private channels covering news, general entertainment, music, sports, and more. This expansion enhances its content diversity across formats and genres.

The platform collaborates with various government ministries to develop meaningful content like docudramas and reality shows that convey important messages. Contributions include a documentary on the Supreme Court's 75th anniversary and cyber security awareness programs.

A Unique Digital Experience

The digital experience on Waves combines Indian culture with modern design elements. It offers user-friendly interfaces across platforms with personalized profiles and curated playlists. Additionally, Waves supports e-commerce through partnerships promoting MSMEs and local businesses.

This launch represents a significant advancement for Prasar Bharati in creating a complete ecosystem for digital media audiences through its innovative OTT service.