Netflix India’s WAVES Panels Showcase Creator-Audience Synergy
The inaugural World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai brought together heavyweight panels to discuss the evolving relationship between content creators and audiences in the digital streaming era.
One of the highlights of the event was Netflix India’s VP of Content Monika Shergill’s insights on how deeply personal stories can become global phenomena. She emphasized the importance of creating content that resonates with audiences on a personal level, citing the international success of the period drama “Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar” as a prime example.
SLB Productions CEO Prerna Singh shared the journey of “Heeramandi,” revealing that what started as a film eventually evolved into a successful series that resonated in over 43 countries. Singh spoke about the effort put into the project, capturing the cinematic grandeur and untold stories that deserved recognition.
Applause Entertainment MD Sameer Nair offered a philosophical perspective on storytelling, emphasizing the importance of having an audience to listen to those stories. The event also featured industry veterans like Shefali Shah and Aditi Rao Hydari, who shared their experiences of connecting with audiences through authentic storytelling.
Rising star Zahan Kapoor discussed his unconventional approach to storytelling with “Black Warrant,” highlighting the importance of telling meaningful stories that resonate with viewers. A second panel focused on reinventing storytelling for a digital-first audience, with industry experts discussing the power of great storytelling and the impact of authentic content.
Filmmaker Michael Lehmann emphasized the enduring importance of human connection in storytelling, despite technological advancements. Guneet Monga Kapoor championed authenticity in storytelling, particularly in documentaries, while Siddharth Roy Kapur expressed optimism about Indian content’s global potential.
Overall, the summit showcased the evolution of storytelling in the digital era and the growing importance of creating authentic and meaningful content that resonates with audiences worldwide. The event highlighted the power of storytelling to connect people across borders and cultures, shaping the future of entertainment in the digital age.
