New York — The Indian Consulate in New York hosted a
thought-provoking cultural exchange on June 6, centered around the rapidly
growing Waves OTT platform. The event, moderated by acclaimed filmmaker and
cultural voice Mukesh Modi, featured insightful conversations with Mr. Navneet
Sehgal, Chairman of Prasar Bharati and the driving force behind Waves OTT, and
international emcee and former Miss India, Ms. Simran Ahuja.
Ms. Khushboo began the program by introducing Indian
Consul General, Hon. Mr. Binaya Pradhan, who warmly welcomed attendees and
presented Waves OTT as a platform committed to amplifying India's rich cultural
and regional diversity on the global digital stage.
Mr. Sunil Hali from The Indian Eye set the tone with an
opening address highlighting the gaps in global representation of Indian media
and cinema, and emphasized the need for more mainstream visibility for Indian
content.
As moderator, Mukesh Modi posed engaging questions,
asking Mr. Sehgal, “What strategies are in place to ensure regional and
culturally rich content finds a space on Waves OTT, and how is the platform
adapting to the preferences of younger, digitally native audiences?”
Mr. Sehgal responded with enthusiasm, explaining how
Waves OTT combines accessibility with innovation. “Users can watch TV, access
news, listen to Indian radio, and even broadcast their own content—all for
free. With over 35 Indian channels available, we've already reached 3 million
subscribers in under a month, and we're aiming for 500 million in the next five
years,” he shared.
Turning to Ms. Simran Ahuja, Modi asked whether talent
can be taught. She reflected, “Talent can be refined and nurtured, but it must
come from within. What can be taught is how to hone it and present it with
confidence.”
The audience, which included filmmakers and creatives,
actively participated with questions about how Waves OTT can support emerging
artists. Mr. Sehgal encouraged them to contribute their work and take advantage
of Waves’ open platform for content creators.

A key moment in the evening was the launch of “The
Practice of Immortality” by ShivYog Master Dr. Ishan Shivanand Ji, presented in
the presence of Consul General Mr. Binaya Pradhan and North Hempstead Town
Clerk Ms. Ragini Srivastava.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mukesh
Modi, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to the distinguished guests,
panelists, and the Indian Consulate. He remarked, “This evening was a
celebration of culture, creativity, and collaboration. Waves OTT is not just a
platform—it’s a movement to bring Indian stories to the world.”
Following the event, a warm and delicious lunch was
graciously served by the Indian Consulate, offering attendees a taste of
authentic Indian hospitality and cuisine.