The Create in India Challenge (CIC), launched as a flagship component of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), has evolved into a global creative movement of unprecedented scale and impact. What began as a domestic effort to promote artistic innovation and media excellence has, within its first season, garnered nearly one lakh registrations from across the globe, including over 1,100 international participants representing more than 60 countries. As registrations officially close, CIC is now preparing for a grand finale at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai, scheduled from May 1st to 4th, 2025, where 750 selected finalists will present their visionary creations on the specially curated Creatosphere platform.
This extraordinary level of participation marks not only the success of a challenge but the emergence of India as a cultural and creative powerhouse on the world stage. Through a fusion of tradition and cutting-edge technology, CIC has attracted entries across 32 unique challenges that span animation, comics, artificial intelligence (AI), extended reality (XR), gaming, music, drone filmmaking, and more.
A Global Canvas
The international footprint of the Create in India Challenge is striking. Out of the 750 finalists, 43 are from overseas, hailing from over 20 countries, including the United States, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, Argentina, Greece, Indonesia, Egypt, and several others. Some countries have emerged as major contributors, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Tajikistan each have six finalists, followed by Indonesia and the Maldives with five each, and Mauritius with four. The United States has two representatives, while countries like Canada, Russia, Malaysia, and the UK each have one.
This broad-based global representation shows the universal appeal of the initiative and its growing influence as a platform for showcasing global talent. By transcending borders and fostering cross-cultural artistic dialogue, CIC is contributing to India’s emergence as a hub for international creative collaboration.
National celebration of diversity and innovation
Domestically, the response to the challenge has been equally resounding. Entries have poured in from all 28 Indian states and 8 Union Territories, reflecting a rich diversity of linguistic, cultural, and regional expression. From the hills of Himachal Pradesh to the coastlines of Kerala, and from the plains of Assam to the deserts of Gujarat, CIC has united India’s creative community on a single platform.
The range of finalists includes participants from both metropolitan cities and rural towns, giving a voice to grassroots innovators and artists. In doing so, the challenge is helping democratise creativity, offering opportunities based on talent rather than geography or privilege.
Youth at the Helm
One of the most inspiring aspects of the Create in India Challenge is the youth-led nature of the initiative. A majority of the participants are in their 20s, college students, young professionals, and budding entrepreneurs who represent the next generation of India’s creative economy.
Yet, the inclusivity of the platform is equally noteworthy. The youngest finalist is just 12 years old, while the oldest is 66, exemplifying the wide age spectrum of contributors. This diverse representation reaffirms the central message of CIC, that creativity knows no age, region, or boundary.
Bridging tradition and technology
Beyond mere numbers, what sets the Create in India Challenge apart is its thematic depth and commitment to social and cultural impact. The challenges span a wide spectrum—from promoting traditional handlooms in “Make the World Wear Khadi” to fostering inclusive education through “Innovate 2 Educate.”
One particularly impactful challenge, “India: A Bird’s Eye View”, invited participants to capture India’s landscapes and cultural moments using drone technology. This challenge not only showcased India’s natural and architectural beauty but also empowered community storytellers like Drone Didis, combining high-tech tools with grassroots narratives.
Creatosphere: The Heart of WAVES 2025
At the heart of WAVES 2025 lies the Creatosphere, a curated space where the 750 shortlisted finalists will showcase their creations. From immersive XR installations and original comic narratives to AI-generated music compositions, Creatosphere will serve as a window into the future of creative expression. It promises to be a melting pot of innovation and imagination, with both Indian and international creators presenting their ideas side by side.
The culmination of these challenges will be the WAVES Creator Awards, to be presented at a glittering red-carpet ceremony on Day 2 of the summit. These awards will honour the brightest minds and boldest creators, recognising their talent, originality, and potential to shape the future of media and entertainment.
A Vision Realised
The success of the Create in India Challenge is a testament to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s call for WAVES to reach every home and every heart. By embracing both tradition and technology, domestic talent and global collaboration, CIC has emerged not only as a contest but as a movement—one that champions India’s creative ambitions and amplifies its cultural voice on the world stage.
As the world prepares to witness the finale in Mumbai this May, the Create in India Challenge stands tall as a symbol of India’s rise as a global creative leader, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and international unity through the power of imagination.
