The WAVES Film Bazaar South Asia’s biggest and most influential film market unfurled its sails today at the Marriott Resort in Panjim, opening with an inspiring ceremony that brought together filmmakers, policymakers, global delegates and industry leaders. Now in its 19th year and newly rebranded as WAVES Film Bazaar, the platform continues its annual tradition of running alongside IFFI, serving as a powerhouse hub for creative and financial partnerships from November 20–24.
In his keynote address, Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, described WAVES as the “perfect beginning” to IFFI, calling it a complete ecosystem of screenings, masterclasses and technology showcases. He said the new identity reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of turning art into commerce and celebrated WAVES for hosting the world’s first e-marketplace for filmmakers. Highlighting India’s push toward future-ready cinema, he pointed to the country’s first-ever AI Film Festival and Hackathon, calling them crucial steps in global technology leadership.
The ceremony’s emotional high point came from Jaewon Kim, Member of the National Assembly of South Korea, who praised the organisers’ consistency since the bazaar’s inception and expressed hope for deeper India–Korea film ties. Her soulful rendition of Vande Mataram drew a standing ovation from the packed hall.
Inaugurating the market, Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, said the Prime Minister envisions India as a global production hub. Calling WAVES a bridge between creators and producers, he applauded the platform for empowering emerging storytellers, noting that 124 new creators are participating this year.
Showcase of talent, tech and global partnerships
Launched in 2007 by NFDC, the Film Bazaar now WAVES Film Bazaar has grown into South Asia’s premier platform for cinematic exchange. This edition brings together over 300 curated projects across verticals such as the Screenwriters’ Lab, Market Screenings, the Viewing Room library and the Co-Production Market.
This year’s Co-Production Market features 22 feature films and 5 documentaries, while WAVES Film Bazaar Recommends spotlights 22 standout films across formats. Delegations from more than seven countries and film incentive showcases from over ten Indian states add to the event’s international and domestic depth.
A dedicated Tech Pavilion showcases cutting-edge VFX, CGI, animation and virtual production tools. In a futuristic leap, the newly introduced CinemAI Hackathon, held in collaboration with LTIMindtree, invites creators to experiment with AI-driven storytelling, certification models and anti-piracy innovations.
With its powerful blend of talent, technology and international collaboration, the WAVES Film Bazaar has once again positioned India as a vibrant global hub for cinema, ideas and innovation where creative currents meet, mingle and make waves.
