In a move that’s set to ripple through India’s entertainment industry, Prasar Bharati has launched its much-anticipated WAVES OTT platform at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024 in Goa. The Prasar Bharati WAVES OTT platform aims to blend nostalgia with modernity, offering a rich tapestry of content across multiple languages and genres.
In This Article
WAVES OTT Platform Features
WAVES isn’t just another streaming service; it’s a cultural voyage. The platform offers content in over 12 languages, including Hindi, English, Bengali, Marathi, Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati, Punjabi, and Assamese. With more than 10 infotainment genres, there’s something for everyone.
Key Features:
- Video on Demand: Access a vast library of classic and contemporary shows.
- Free-to-Play Gaming: Enjoy interactive games without any extra cost.
- Live TV Streaming: Tune into 65 live channels, including Doordarshan and private broadcasters.
- Radio Streaming: Listen to live radio from Akashvani and more.
- App Integrations: Seamlessly integrate video and gaming content.
- Online Shopping via ONDC: Shop directly through the platform.
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Supporting Young Creators and Diverse Content
WAVES is making waves by spotlighting young creators and student filmmakers. Content from National Creator Awardees like Kamiya Jani, RJ Raunac, and Shraddha Sharma is featured prominently. The platform also showcases student films from prestigious institutions like FTII and Annapurna Film and Media Studio.
Content and Events on WAVES
Aligning with IFFI’s focus on emerging talent, WAVES includes:
- “Roll No. 52”: A student project that’s already turning heads.
- “Fauji 2.0”: A modern twist on the iconic Shah Rukh Khan series from the ’80s.
- “Kicking Balls”: Produced by Oscar-winner Guneet Monga Kapoor.
- “Jackson Halt”: A gripping crime thriller.
- “Jaiye Aap Kahan Jayenge”: A unique take on mobile toilets.
The platform isn’t just about on-demand content. It also streams live events like the Prabhu Shriram Lalla Aarti from Ayodhya and “Mann Ki Baat” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sports enthusiasts can look forward to the US Premier League Cricket Tournament starting November 22, 2024.
Government Collaboration and Special Programming
In collaboration with various government ministries and states, WAVES offers meaningful content such as:
- A documentary celebrating 75 years of the Supreme Court of India.
- “Cinemas of India”: A project by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC).
- Archival content from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Pricing and Availability
The WAVES app is free to download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. While a significant portion of the content is free, premium content requires a subscription:
- Platinum (Rs. 999/year):
- 1080p streaming
- Access on 4 devices
- Downloads, live TV, radio, background play
- 10% discount on TVODs
- Diamond (Rs. 350/year, Rs. 85 for 3 months, Rs. 30/month):
- 720p streaming
- Access on 2 devices
- Gold (Rs. 350/year, Rs. 85 for 3 months, Rs. 30/month):
- 480p streaming
- Access on 1 device
Subscriptions can be purchased via the official website, wavespb.com, as in-app purchases are not yet supported.
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Speaking at the launch, Shri Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati, emphasized the importance of accessibility: “The public broadcaster must be accessible across all platforms to ensure information and content reach audiences throughout our vast country.” He added that WAVES will help people stay connected with their roots and culture, no matter where they are.
Final Thoughts
With WAVES, Prasar Bharati is not just riding the digital wave; it’s creating one. By blending traditional content with modern platforms, it aims to cater to a diverse audience while supporting emerging talent. Whether you’re nostalgic for classic shows or eager to discover new content, WAVES might just be the next big thing in India’s OTT landscape.
