On December 29, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered high praise to the Indian film and entertainment industry, recognizing its significant and enduring contributions to the nation's development. Speaking during the 117th episode of his popular radio show Mann Ki Baat, he highlighted how Indian cinema has not only bolstered the country’s global presence but has also played an integral role in shaping the cultural fabric of India. PM Modi took a moment to honor the legendary Raj Kapoor, noting how his cinematic work introduced the world to India's cultural soft power. Raj Kapoor’s iconic films transcended borders and showcased Indian values, bringing global recognition to the nation's rich storytelling traditions.
PM Modi's remarks came at a time when India is celebrating the centenary of several prominent figures in the film and entertainment industry. The Prime Minister acknowledged that these celebrated icons, through their exceptional work, have embodied the essence of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ (One India, Great India), a vision of national unity and integrity. Modi emphasized the lasting impact these personalities have had, enriching Indian cinema and cultural diplomacy globally.
In his address, PM Modi pointed out the enduring influence of the great singer Mohammad Rafi, whose melodious voice continues to captivate audiences even today. He noted that Rafi's songs, whether devotional, romantic, or melancholic, have touched the hearts of generations, and that today’s youth continues to listen to his timeless music with the same passion. His ability to evoke deep emotions through song, the Prime Minister said, was a reflection of the "timeless art" that Indian cinema is known for.
PM Modi also acknowledged the contributions of other iconic figures like Akkineni Nageswara Rao, whose work helped elevate Telugu cinema, and Tapan Sinha, whose films were transformative in their exploration of social issues and their impact on society. These artists, PM Modi noted, were instrumental in conveying the rich traditions and values of India through their cinematic works, enhancing the cultural dialogue between India and the rest of the world.
A major highlight of the address was the announcement of the launch of KTB-Bharat Hain Hum, an animation series aimed at educating younger generations about the unsung heroes of India's freedom struggle. The series, which is set to air every Sunday at 10:30 AM on Doordarshan and various OTT platforms, will feature animated characters Krish, Trish, and Baltiboy, who will narrate the stories of lesser-known freedom fighters—heroes whose contributions are often overlooked in mainstream historical narratives. PM Modi mentioned that the second season of the series had already been launched at the International Film Festival in Goa, garnering attention from both the entertainment industry and global audiences.
What makes KTB-Bharat Hain Hum unique is its accessibility in a range of languages, not only in India’s many regional languages but also in foreign languages, allowing it to reach a wider global audience. PM Modi encouraged the public to tune in to the show, which he believes will help educate children about the country’s rich history and the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for India’s independence. He also promoted the Bharat Hai Hum radio series, which is available on the Akashvani network in 12 languages, making it accessible to people from various linguistic backgrounds across the country.
PM Modi also highlighted the growing economic importance of the film and entertainment industry in India, noting how it is a key player in the country’s economic growth. The Prime Minister stressed that the industry, which encompasses not only cinema but also television shows, serials, and digital content, is contributing significantly to India’s GDP. He acknowledged that creative content, produced in multiple Indian languages, is increasingly resonating with audiences both domestically and internationally, showcasing the global appeal of Indian entertainment. The industry is driving job creation, fostering innovation, and contributing to the country’s status as a cultural powerhouse on the world stage.
To further emphasize the importance of the Indian creative economy, PM Modi announced the forthcoming World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) to be held in India. This summit is expected to bring together key players from the global entertainment industry to explore new opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and growth. It is an initiative aimed at highlighting India’s growing role in shaping the global entertainment landscape, as well as providing a platform for Indian filmmakers, artists, and creators to showcase their work on the world stage.
The Prime Minister’s address served as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of India’s film and entertainment industry. From Raj Kapoor’s iconic films to the vibrant world of Indian television and digital content, the creative industry continues to shape the nation’s identity and global image. Through initiatives like KTB-Bharat Hain Hum and the WAVES summit, PM Modi emphasized that India is not only preserving its rich cultural heritage but also making a lasting impact on the global cultural ecosystem. By celebrating these contributions and fostering new creative collaborations, India is poised to continue its ascent as a global cultural leader.
