Waves-summit-2025-modi-srk-aamir-khan-mohanlal
On May 1, Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) hosted the grand inauguration of the WAVES Summit 2025, a four-day global event launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Organized by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the summit aims to cement India’s role as a powerhouse in media, entertainment, and digital innovation, uniting creators, tech pioneers, industry titans, and policymakers from around the world.
The opening ceremony drew a dazzling array of Indian cinema luminaries, including Shah Rukh Khan, Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Mohanlal, Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar, Hema Malini, Ranbir Kapoor, Chiranjeevi, Nagarjuna, Anil Kapoor, Kartik Aaryan, and filmmaker SS Rajamouli.
Mohanlal kicked off the event with a captivating audio-visual showcase, while Rajinikanth delivered a poignant address, referencing the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Praising Modi as a “resilient leader,” he affirmed, “Despite calls to delay this event, I knew it would go on. My heartfelt support to the government and media industry.”
Shah Rukh Khan highlighted the summit’s global impact, stating, “Our stories are not just art but assets of immense value. Under PM Modi’s vision, WAVES is a transformative platform for creators and innovators worldwide.” Rajamouli echoed this, emphasizing India’s storytelling heritage: “Our narrative tradition spans millennia, yet we lag behind global peers like the US or Korea. WAVES can bridge that gap, uniting our efforts.” Ranbir Kapoor added, “This summit merges films, music, and cutting-edge tech. I’m honored to serve on its board.”
Kartik Aaryan, visibly moved, introduced Rajinikanth as “the nation’s superstar,” while Oscar-winning composer MM Keeravani performed a stirring inaugural anthem with a 30-member orchestra. Anil Kapoor unveiled Sankalp, a performance by Sharad Kelkar celebrating India’s cultural diversity. Nagarjuna announced commemorative stamps honoring cinema legends Guru Dutt, Ritwik Ghatak, Salil Chowdhury, Raj Khosla, and P Bhanumati, building on tributes from the 55th IFFI.
With stars like Deepika Padukone, Saif Ali Khan, Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal, and AR Rahman also attending, WAVES underscores India’s growing influence in global entertainment, driven by its vibrant film industry and digital innovation.