The inaugural World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) opened with grandeur at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai, launching with a captivating panel discussion titled “Legends & Legacies: The Stories That Shaped India’s Soul.” Organized by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, the event brought together cinematic icons Hema Malini, Mohanlal, and Chiranjeevi, moderated by superstar Akshay Kumar, to explore the essence of storytelling, creativity, and India’s cultural legacy.
Hema Malini, the iconic “Dream Girl,” lauded the initiative, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for making WAVES a reality. “It’s a beautiful initiative by the Government of India. I’m glad to be part of it,” she said, highlighting the platform’s significance for creators and innovators.
Mohanlal, the celebrated Malayalam actor, reflected on the evolving landscape of cinema, dismissing the divide between art and commercial films. “I don’t differentiate between art and commercial cinema – it’s storytelling that moves people,” he remarked, emphasizing the universal power of narratives that resonate with audiences.
Veteran actor Chiranjeevi shared an emotional account of his lifelong passion for acting, which began in childhood. “Acting has been my first love. I was always driven to hit the bull’s eye, constantly asking myself what unique element I could bring to become a better actor,” he said. Committed to authenticity, he added, “I’ve always wanted audiences to see me as the boy next door, keeping my performances natural and genuine.” Chiranjeevi also paid homage to cinematic legends like Mithun Chakraborty, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan, whose influence shaped his illustrious career.
The session offered a rare and poignant glimpse into the personal journeys and shared legacies of these luminaries, captivating the audience with their insights and anecdotes. WAVES 2025, with its focus on celebrating and advancing India’s audio-visual and entertainment industry, has set the stage for a dynamic summit, promising more thought-provoking discussions and creative exchanges in the days ahead.
