India’s media and entertainment industry is poised for remarkable growth, with projections estimating it could surge to an impressive $100 billion in just ten years—up from its current valuation of $28 billion. This optimistic forecast was shared by Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries, during his keynote speech at the Waves Summit 2025.

Transformative Growth in Media and Entertainment

Ambani, who oversees the influential Network18 and facilitated the 2024 merger of Star India and Viacom18 to establish JioStar, valued at an astounding $8.5 billion, highlighted the intersection of storytelling and technology as a pivotal opportunity for the industry. He stated, “The evolution of India’s media landscape is not just about growth; it’s about igniting entrepreneurship and creating millions of jobs that will reverberate through various sectors.”

• Key Insights from Ambani:
  • Media and entertainment could grow more than three times its current size.
  • This growth will foster job creation and stimulate various industries.
  • The fusion of storytelling with digital technology creates a global competitive edge.

The Global Impact of Indian Storytelling

Ambani further emphasized the international significance of India’s media sector, noting how it has expanded the reach and impact of cultural narratives. He framed entertainment as a “real power,” contrasting it with the concept of “soft power.” He remarked, “No other nation can rival India’s storytelling heritage, from the Ramayana to the Mahabharata. These timeless tales have the potential to mend a fractured world.”

Embracing Technology in Creative Expression

In his address, Ambani also underscored the importance of artificial intelligence and immersive technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality. He believes these tools enable Indian creators to dominate the global entertainment arena. The Waves Summit itself symbolizes culture, innovation, collaboration, and a thriving creative economy.

“Let the Waves rise,” Ambani concluded, while praising the Modi government and I&B Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for their swift organization of the summit, which took mere months to bring to fruition.

Conclusion

As India’s media and entertainment sector gears up for exponential growth, the synergy between traditional storytelling and modern technology positions the country as a formidable player on the global stage. The future promises an exciting blend of creativity and innovation, setting the foundation for a vibrant economic landscape.