The much-awaited 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has begun in Goa on a starry note. The opening day saw Bhumi Pednekar, Madhur Bhandarkar, Ishaan Khatter, Jaideep Ahlawat and Shekhar Kapur, among others, gracing the red carpet. The nine-day festival (from November 20 to November 28) is showcasing more than 180 films from 81 countries. As many as 16 films will premiere in the ‘World’ section, followed by three in ‘International’, 43 in ‘Asian’ and 109 in ‘Indian’ categories respectively. Adding to the enthusiasm, Prasar Bharati announced the launch of its own OTT platform, called Waves – Family Entertainment Ki Nayi Lehar.
Available on Android and iOS, the new digital platform is all set to deliver diverse content. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant launched Waves at the opening ceremony of IFFI 2024, terming it a ‘significant moment for the Indian entertainment industry’.
The Prasar Bharati OTT app 'WAVES' is now live on Android and iOS, allowing users to stream Doordarshan classics with no subscription required. Download the app today and enjoy family-friendly entertainment at your fingertips.
— DD News (@DDNewslive) November 21, 2024
Download now:
Android: https://t.co/KOhXFwQjHz… pic.twitter.com/LhkuyQoFWk
According to an official statement, the new platform will stream content in over 12 languages – including Hindi, English, Marathi, Tamil and Assamese – across genres such as infotainment, gaming, education and shopping. Additionally, it features 65 live TV channels, video-on-demand and free-to-play games. Waves is said to be designed as a ‘one-stop hub’ for family-friendly entertainment, education and shopping.
During the film festival, Waves will screen new films and shows that includes Nagarjuna and Amala Akkineni’s Roll No. 52 by, Fauji 2.0 (starring Gauhar Khan) and Guneet Monga Kapoor’s Kicking Balls, alongside the animated series Chhota Bheem and crime thrillers.
Meanwhile, speaking at the opening ceremony, acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur – who is also the Festival Director of the 55th IFFI – described Indians as the ‘greatest content makers and content consumers in the world’. “In this polarised world, within nations, within communities, the only way we talk to each other is by telling each other our stories. Stories are how we relate. Stories are how we perceive each other. That’s what has to go on and we have to go on holding film festivals. So, at this festival, I beg everyone to celebrate not just the filmmakers but our audiences too. Let’s tell each other our stories…War here, war there. How will this stop? The only way this will stop is if we get together and tell each other our stories and understand each other,” he said.
