Prasar Bharati's OTT Platform Waves Launches with Over 65 Live TV Channels and Free-to-Play Gaming

Mumbai: India's state-run public broadcaster Prasar Bharati has launched its OTT platform Waves, offering a comprehensive range of content including news, documentaries, regional programming, and archive footage from Doordarshan. The platform also boasts video on demand services, free-to-play gaming, radio streaming, live TV streaming, and online shopping.

Waves aims to provide alternative platforms for consumers looking for free or low-cost access to various forms of entertainment and information. With a strong lineup of 65+ live TV channels, including NDTV India, ABP News, India Today, B4U Movies, and 9X Jalwa, Waves promises to expand its reach into households across the country.

BROADCASTERS GET A CUT For free-to-air linear television channels, such as Sri Adhikari Brothers' Mastii, Dabbang, and Maiboli, Wave's is an attractive proposition. Anup Chandrasekharan, COO of IN10 Media Network, noted that Waves presents a significant opportunity for regional content creators to showcase their heritage, culture, and traditions - something often lacking in private OTT platforms.

"It opens a vast sea of opportunities for free-to-air channels and content creators like us," said Kailash Adhikari, Business Head of Sri Adhikari Brothers. He added that waves is seen as a game-changer and huge growth opportunity for free-to air channel and will provide access to new audiences in tier 2 India.

With content available for free and at an affordable subscription plan, Waves offers advertisers the potential to reach tier-2 and below audience - a significant segment of the market. According to Shrenik Gandhi, CEO and co-founder of White Rivers Media, "It’s great to see the government recognizing the need for upgrading content choices and viewing habits for this audience."

CEOs WEIGH IN

However, not all experts are optimistic about Waves' prospects. For instance, CEO and partner at TheSmallBigIdea Harikrishnan Pillai said, “There’s no clear proof of concept unless they transform it into a super app—making features like content IRCTC Booking. This would help to establish its appeal beyond content alone".

When asked what type of content will work best for these types of audiences, Pillai answered that this is something an advertiser may see compelling - but only if distribution and quality improve.

In conclusion, The Indian state-run public broadcaster Prasar Bharti OTT wave platform now offers streaming live TV channels over 65 plus channels and other entertainment options.