Mumbai: The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) marked a major milestone today with the inauguration of the 19th Film Bazaar—reintroduced this year as Waves Film Bazaar. Held annually from November 20–28, IFFI remains India’s largest and longest-running international film festival, drawing global filmmakers, studios, distributors, and storytellers for nine days of screenings, masterclasses, market activity, co-production networking, and creative exchange.
Recognised as one of Asia’s leading film markets, Waves Film Bazaar continues to serve as IFFI’s cornerstone industry platform, enabling filmmakers to connect with financiers, international festival curators, sales agents, studios, and co-production partners. This year’s edition comes with a renewed vision and expanded programme slate aimed at strengthening India’s global footprint in film and content creation.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of esteemed dignitaries including Chief Guest Ms. Jaewon Kim from the Republic of Korea; Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting; filmmaker Garth Davis; actor Anupam Kher; Dr. L. Murugan, Minister of State, Information & Broadcasting; Additional Secretary Prabhat Kumar; Advisor to Waves Bazaar Jerome Pilloard; actor Nandamuri Balakrishna; and IFFI Festival Director Shekhar Kapur.
Highlighting the enhanced scope and ambition of the rebranded marketplace, Shri Sanjay Jaju said, “Waves Film Bazaar will present its most ambitious slate with more than 300 films this year. Each section is crafted to ensure creators at every stage find a place and pathway. For the first time, the bazaar will also award a cash grant of USD 20,000 to encourage and support emerging filmmakers.”
Echoing the vision of India’s expanding creative economy, Dr. L. Murugan said, “As our Prime Minister mentioned in WAVES, India is emerging as a global power in production, digital content, gaming, fashion and music. This is the form of the large economy in our nation. WAVES Film Bazaar will bridge the gap between the theatres to the world producers. We are also giving a platform to the young minds.”
The ceremony featured a memorable cultural moment when Ms. Jaewon Kim performed “Vande Mataram,” joined by the audience in a unifying tribute.
With increased global participation, first-ever cash grants, and strengthened industry access, the Waves Film Bazaar continues to elevate IFFI’s role as a premier international hub for cinematic collaboration, creative innovation, and market expansion.
