Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi Opens Up On Indian Cinema's Global Impact , Honours Raj Kapoor and Mohd Rafi

In his 117th episode of the popular radio program Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian film and entertainment industry for its immense contributions to the nation's growth. He emphasised how the sector is not only a source of cultural pride but also plays a vital role in promoting national unity under the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' initiative.

Indian Cinema: A Global Force for Cultural Unity

PM Modi highlighted the far-reaching impact of Indian cinema, noting its growing popularity across the world. From animation films to TV serials, the Indian entertainment industry is rapidly expanding its global footprint. "Our creative industry is driving the country's progress and significantly contributing to our economic growth," the Prime Minister said, underlining the sector's role in shaping India’s cultural identity.

Honoring Legends like Raj Kapoor and Mohd Rafi

In 2024, the country celebrates the centenaries of several iconic figures from Indian cinema. PM Modi paid tribute to legendary artists like Raj Kapoor, whose films showcased India's soft power on the global stage. "Raj Kapoor ji introduced the world to India's rich cultural heritage through his timeless films," he remarked. He also acknowledged the lasting influence of singer Mohammad Rafi, whose voice continues to captivate audiences, and other luminaries like Akkineni Nageswara Rao, whose contributions elevated Telugu cinema, and Tapan Sinha, whose films promoted national unity and social consciousness.

WAVES Summit: India's Next Step Toward Global Content Leadership

PM Modi announced the inaugural World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES), set to make India a global hub for content creation. Drawing comparisons with Davos, which hosts global economic discussions, the Prime Minister explained that the WAVES summit would attract global media giants and creative professionals to India. He called on young creators, seasoned artists, and experts in animation, gaming, and technology to participate in this historic event, which aligns with India's ambitious goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy.