Mumbai: ‘BRICS Waves Bazaar,’ a major international marketplace for the creative economy, commenced in Mumbai today, with the participation of over 500 delegates from BRICS member and partner nations. The two-day event aims to foster collaboration, business opportunities, and global partnerships within the audiovisual and creative industries.
Maharashtra’s Minister for Cultural Affairs, Ashish Shelar, stated that India is reinforcing its global identity, with the ‘Orange Economy’ playing a pivotal role in this process. He described the ‘BRICS WAVES Bazaar’ as a platform where new ideas are being transformed into partnerships. Emphasizing the creative economy emerging from the convergence of art and technology, he urged industry leaders to nurture young talent.
Chanchal Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, stated that the creative sector should move beyond mere discussions and advance towards collaboration and partnerships. He noted that the ‘BRICS WAVES Bazaar’ involves representatives from 20 countries and over 500 participants, with more than 80 special meetings being held over two days.
Joint Secretary (MER-III) Rajiv Bodwade, I&B Ministry’s Joint Secretary Senthil Rajan, filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, NFDC MD Prakash Magdum, along with industry leaders and stakeholders, attended the event.
Rajiv Bodwade, Joint Secretary (MER-III) at the Ministry of External Affairs, stated that the ‘BRICS WAVES Bazaar 2026’ is being organized under the theme of India’s presidency—”Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability.” He said the creative economy is a key driver of growth, contributing 3.1% to global GDP and over $1.4 trillion in service exports. BRICS can leverage its digital markets and cultural heritage to drive further growth in this sector.
This two-day event will feature discussions, presentations, a creators’ hub, B2B meetings, and other initiatives aimed at promoting the orange economy. Its objective is to foster long-term partnerships, trade, investment, and cultural cooperation among BRICS nations.
(PIB)
