India’s BRICS Presidency Highlights Collaboration in Film, Gaming and Digital Media

Mumbai, August 6 – As India assumes the BRICS chair, the city launched the BRICS Waves Market 2026, a two‑day summit designed to deepen cooperation in the creative sector. Over 500 delegates from member and partner countries convened to discuss film, television, animation, VFX, gaming, music and digital platforms.

Ashish Shelar, the state minister for electronics, IT, AI and culture, told participants that the market could set a new direction for the global creative economy, leveraging India’s cultural legacy and tech innovations.

Chanchal Kumar, Secretary of the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s view that culture and creativity are effective tools for international dialogue. He added that the November 2026 BRICS Film Festival will further unlock co‑production, financing and partnership prospects.

The gathering featured delegations from 21 BRICS and associated nations, with the objective of building a sustainable venue where creative projects, talent and investors meet. Kumar cited India’s Waves initiative, the India Cine Hub, the Indian Institute of Creative Technology and skill‑development schemes as pillars supporting global creative alliances.

International Film Festival of India director Ashutosh Govarikar extended an invitation to IFFI 2026, emphasizing cinema’s power to connect cultures and reinforce cooperation.

Foreign Ministry Joint Secretary Rajiv Bodwade linked the event to the BRICS theme of resilience, innovation, collaboration and sustainability, noting that the creative economy contributes roughly 3.1 % of worldwide GDP and generates over $1.4 trillion in international service exports.

National Film Development Corporation Managing Director Prakash Magdum outlined a programme that includes high‑level conferences, panel debates, B2B meetings and networking sessions focusing on co‑production, content financing, digital transformation, IP protection, women entrepreneurship and emerging technologies.