Prasar Bharati Launches WAVES: India’s Free OTT Platform
Offering 65 Live Channels, Gaming, and Multilingual Support Without a Subscription
The government has taken a significant step towards enhancing public entertainment with the launch of an Over-The-Top (OTT) platform by Prasar Bharati. This new initiative, named WAVES, was unveiled during the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. The event saw the presence of senior officials, including the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Chief Minister of Goa.
With this development, India’s trusted public broadcaster, Doordarshan, is now available on the OTT platform. Prasar Bharati made the announcement via a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“Prasar Bharati has launched the WAVES OTT platform at IFFI! The platform aims to revive nostalgia while embracing cutting-edge digital trends, offering a rich blend of classic content and contemporary programming.”
Features of WAVES OTT Platform:
- 65 Live Channels – Access to a variety of live TV channels.
- Video-on-Demand – Watch content at your convenience.
- Free-to-Play Gaming – Gaming options without additional charges.
- Radio Streaming – Enjoy online radio.
- Cyber Shopping – Integrated online shopping options.
- ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) – Seamless digital commerce support.
- Multi-Language Support – Available in over 12 languages to cater to a diverse audience.
WAVES aims to compete with established players like Netflix, Jio Cinema, and Disney+ Hotstar but stands out by offering content without requiring a subscription fee. This makes it a budget-friendly option, especially for users looking for quality entertainment without extra costs.
Prasar Bharati emphasized that the platform has been designed keeping every Indian in mind, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs and preferences of the population. WAVES is not just another OTT platform; it’s a step towards democratizing digital entertainment for all.
