In a notable event at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025, the Bharat Pavilion made its debut, introducing WAVES Bazaar to North America. This initiative represents India’s first international e-marketplace specifically for the film, media, and AVGC-XR sectors.
The Pavilion was inaugurated by Ajay Nagabhushan, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, along with Kapidhwaja Pratap Singh, the Acting Consul General of India in Toronto, and Cameron Bailey, TIFF’s CEO.
WAVES Bazaar aims to connect creators and buyers across various industries, including film, television, and gaming. The platform promotes networking, facilitates buyer-seller interactions, showcases projects, and encourages collaborations, allowing Indian creators to engage with international stakeholders effectively.
During the inauguration, Nagabhushan emphasized the Pavilion’s role in highlighting India’s cinematic achievements while fostering global partnerships. For the first time, the Indian delegation at TIFF consists entirely of women-led film projects. An expert jury selected six outstanding projects from over 200 applications, showcasing the unique perspectives women bring to cinema.
Looking forward to WAVES Bazaar on September 6, 2025, Nagabhushan pointed out its global significance. This initiative, first launched in Mumbai, has already made waves internationally. The Toronto event will feature panel discussions, policy dialogues, and business meetings connecting Indian and international delegates.
Singh remarked on Toronto’s vibrant film scene and large Indian community, stressing that the launch of WAVES Bazaar is a crucial step for enhancing India-Canada cultural and business relations. Bailey added that TIFF is committed to nurturing cross-cultural partnerships, recognizing India’s rising influence in global cinema.
These discussions also explored the future potential of establishing a dedicated film market at TIFF, with a focus on Indian content. The Bharat Pavilion, curated by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), stands as a vital hub for industry networking and exchanges.
The importance of platforms like WAVES Bazaar can be underscored by recent statistics indicating that collaboration between creators has increased significantly in recent years. According to a 2024 report from the International Federation of Film Producers Associations, global film and content collaborations rose by 25% from the previous year, demonstrating the growing interconnectedness in the media landscape.
As these initiatives unfold, a clear trend emerges: traditional barriers in cinema and media are diminishing. New technologies and marketplaces are reshaping how stories are told and shared, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse cinematic experience. As we continue to witness this evolution, the future of film looks bright, with voices from all corners of the globe contributing to a rich tapestry of storytelling.
 





















