Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcaster, has officially entered the OTT market with its platform ‘Waves,’ a family-oriented streaming service blending nostalgic classics with modern content. The platform was launched at the prestigious 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, marking a new chapter in digital entertainment for Indian audiences.
Key Highlights
- Comprehensive Content Library: Waves offers 65+ live TV channels, featuring iconic Doordarshan programming alongside private broadcasters like ABP News, India Today, Republic, and NDTV India. It also includes All India Radio channels and a rich variety of on-demand videos.
- Exclusive and Original Content:
- Archived Classics: Relive the magic of shows like Ramayan, Mahabharat, and Shaktimaan.
- New Productions: Enjoy fresh takes like Kakbhushundi Ramayana, inspired by global retellings of the epic, and Fauji 2.0, a reimagining of the series that launched Shah Rukh Khan’s career.
- Modern Originals: Includes Kicking Balls, produced by Oscar-winner Guneet Monga Kapoor, family dramas like Thode Door Thode Paas, thrillers like Bhed Bharam, and animated series such as Chhota Bheem and Tenali Rama.
- Live Events: Waves plans to live-stream significant events, starting with the upcoming US Premier League Cricket Tournament.
Entertainment for Everyone: Plans That Fit All Budgets
The Waves app is free to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, with most content accessible at no cost. For those seeking premium features, the platform offers subscription plans at affordable rates:
- Platinum Plan: ₹999/year
- Diamond Plan: ₹350/year, ₹85 for 3 months, or ₹30/month
- Gold Plan: ₹350/year, ₹85 for 3 months, or ₹30/month
Subscriptions can be purchased through the official website (waves.pb) since the app currently does not support in-app payments.
A Platform for All Audiences
Prasar Bharati’s Chairman Navneet Kumar Sehgal described Waves as a step toward providing “clean family entertainment accessible to all sections of society.” Meanwhile, CEO Gaurav Dwivedi highlighted the need for public broadcasters to remain relevant across all platforms to reach diverse audiences effectively.
Why It Matters
With its mix of nostalgia, affordability, and inclusivity, Waves is set to carve out a unique niche in India’s crowded OTT landscape. Whether you’re looking to revisit Doordarshan classics or explore new-age entertainment, Waves promises a seamless viewing experience for all generations.