WAVES 2025: PM Narendra Modi talks about the legacy of India's first feature film 'Raja Harishchandra'

A still of Raja Hrishchandra

Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off the inaugural World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai today (May 1). While addressing the illustrious guests, who included the who's who of the entertainment industry, PM Modi discussed the first silent film, 'Raja Harishchandra,' which was released 112 years ago on May 1.

During his speech, PM Modi stated that the Indian entertainment sector has expanded globally over the previous century.

"Raja Harishchandra, India's first feature film, was released 112 years ago today, on May 1. "The entertainment industry has spread around the world over the last century," he said in his keynote speech, highlighting the global growth and influence of Indian storytelling.

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About Raja Harishchandra

Raja Harishchandra, which released on May 1, 1913, was directed and produced by Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, generally known as Dadasaheb Phalke, who is regarded as the Father of Indian Cinema.

The film was based on the life of legendary king Harishchandra, who was recognised for his unyielding dedication to truth and dharma, resulting in a truly Indian story that would kick off the country's cinematic adventure.

Raja Harishchandra was a silent film that ran for around 40 minutes and it had Dattatraya Damodar Dabke portray the role of Harishchandra.

Because women were not allowed to work in films at that time, the character of Queen Taramati was also played by a male actor, Anna Salunke.

Despite being played just in a few theaters, the movie was a critical and economic triumph, laying the framework for what would become one of the world's most productive and diversified film industries.

It marked the beginning of Indian cinema and inspired a generation of filmmakers to use film as a medium for expressing culture, values, and creativity.

In his speech at WAVES 2025, Prime Minister Modi emphasised how India's creative sectors - including cinema, television, music, OTT, animation, and gaming - are not just economic drivers but also cultural ambassadors.

"From Raja Harishchandra to RRR, Lagaan, and beyond—India's cinema has captured hearts and minds around the world," he remarked.

He emphasised the need of encouraging innovation, investing in cutting-edge technology like as VFX and AI, and sharing more stories that reflect India's diversity. The WAVES conference aims to establish a collaborative venue for these principles by bringing together artists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to shape the next century of entertainment.