The Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, unveiled ‘WAVES,’ Prasar Bharati’s OTT platform, during the inauguration of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. This launch represents a significant milestone for Doordarshan, India’s public broadcaster, as it embraces the digital era to cater to the growing demand for streaming services while celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage. Shri Sanjay Jaju, Secretary of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, and other dignitaries were present for the occasion.
Reviving Legacy with Modern Digital Trends
‘WAVES’ aims to bridge traditional television’s charm with modern streaming technology by offering a diverse library of classic and contemporary programming. The platform features iconic shows like Ramayan, Mahabharat, Shaktimaan, and Hum Log, alongside news, documentaries, and regional content. It brings inclusivity to the forefront by offering content in over 12 Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Marathi, and Assamese, across more than 10 infotainment genres.
A Comprehensive Digital Ecosystem
‘WAVES’ is designed as a full-fledged infotainment hub, featuring:
- Live TV streaming with 65 live channels.
- Video-on-demand and exclusive shows.
- Free-to-play gaming and app integrations.
- E-commerce access via the ONDC-supported platform.
- Regional content and news updates.
The platform also promotes live event coverage, such as Prabhu Shriram Lalla Aarti from Ayodhya, Mann Ki Baat by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and international sports, including the US Premier League Cricket Tournament.
Supporting Emerging Talent and Original Content
Aligned with the IFFI’s focus on young filmmakers, WAVES will screen notable films and shows like:
- Roll No. 52, a student film from Annapurna Film and Media Studio.
- Fauji 2.0, a modern retelling of the 1980s classic.
- Kicking Balls by Oscar-winner Guneet Monga Kapoor.
- Jaiye Aap Kahan Jayenge, centered on mobile toilets.
It also invites young creators and National Creator Awardees like Kamiya Jani and RJ Raunac to showcase their work. Additionally, WAVES opens doors for film and media students from FTII, Annapurna, and AAFT to feature their graduation projects.
Engaging Audiences with Diverse Offerings
The platform boasts a variety of original programming and entertainment, including:
- Monkey King: The Hero is Back, a fantasy action film.
- Bharat Ka Amrit Kalash, a music reality show by Kailash Kher.
- Cyber Crime Ki Duniya and Cyber Alert, awareness programs on cybersecurity.
- Popular animated shows like Chhota Bheem and Tenaliram.
- Games such as Krishna Jump and Cricket Premier League Tournament.
Government Collaboration and Archival Content
Central ministries and state governments are contributing exclusive content, such as documentaries and dramatized shows. Highlights include a documentary on the Supreme Court’s 75th anniversary and rare archival material from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
A User-Friendly and Inclusive Platform
With a sleek, modern interface, cross-platform compatibility, and curated playlists, WAVES offers a personalized streaming experience. The platform combines Indian ethos with global accessibility, targeting both tech-savvy youth and audiences seeking nostalgic content.
Significance of the Launch
The launch of WAVES signifies Prasar Bharati’s leap into the OTT space, offering an inclusive infotainment ecosystem. It combines timeless Indian culture with contemporary digital advancements, marking a new chapter for public broadcasting and digital media in India.
