In November 2024, Prasar Bharati introduced the WAVES OTT platform, a digital streaming service designed to offer a wide array of content. This platform encompasses various media, including radio and television channels, TV shows, web series, films, live events, radio services, cultural programming, educational content, and a treasure trove of archival material from Prasar Bharati. With an impressive user base exceeding 8.4 million, WAVES has attracted audiences from diverse regions, including Chhindwara district in Madhya Pradesh, showcasing its broad appeal and accessibility.
Earlier in March 2024, Prasar Bharati also launched the Shared Audio-Visuals for Broadcast and Dissemination (PB-SHABD) initiative, aimed at delivering news in 15 different Indian languages. This initiative includes languages such as Assamese, Bengali, English, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Malayalam, Marathi, Odia, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Dogri, and Urdu. Initially offered free of charge for a year, the service has been extended until March 2027, allowing users to access vital news and information without any financial barriers, thereby promoting inclusivity and engagement across linguistic demographics.
The WAVES OTT platform, along with PB-SHABD, serves as a vital resource for accessing a diverse range of Prasar Bharati‘s content, including programs and news in Hindi and various regional languages. This accessibility extends throughout the country, reaching areas like the Surguja region of Chhattisgarh. The phased release of archival content, which includes beloved television shows and documentary films, is designed to enhance user engagement and make it easier for audiences to discover and enjoy the rich history of Prasar Bharati’s programming. This initiative not only preserves cultural heritage but also fosters a deeper connection with viewers across India.
Prasar Bharati OTT Platform
WAVES, an innovative Over-The-Top (OTT) platform developed by Prasar Bharati, made its debut during the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on November 20, 2024, in the vibrant city of Panaji, Goa. This platform stands out by offering its user interface in over ten languages, including Hindi, English, Bengali, Marathi, Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati, and Punjabi, which reflects India’s rich linguistic tapestry. Moreover, WAVES hosts a diverse array of content available in more than 26 languages, effectively catering to the country’s vast cultural diversity while also expanding its appeal on a global scale. This strategic approach not only enhances accessibility for a wider audience but also positions WAVES as a significant player in the international streaming landscape.
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