Waves Film Bazaar 2025 wrapped up with Momentum at 56th IFFI
JS (Films) Dr. Ajay Nagabhushan promised an expanded version of WAVES Film Bazaar in its 20th Edition
NFDC is committed to nurturing independent minds: MD NFDC, Sh. Prakash Magdum
24 November 2025: The Waves Film Bazaar 2025 wrapped up with a grand closing ceremony today at 56th IFFI marking the end of five days of vibrant exchanges, global collaborations and groundbreaking cinematic showcases. The event brought together distinguished filmmakers, industry leaders, funders and emerging talent from across the world in a celebration of creativity and innovation.
The stage was graced by prominent dignitaries including Joint Secretaries of the Ministry of the Information and Broadcasting, Dr. Ajay Nagabhushan MN and Dr. K. K. Nirala, Managing Director, NFDC Sh. Prakash Magdum, Advisor, Waves Film Bazaar Jerome Paillard, Festival Director, IFFI Shekhar Kapur, Renowned filmmakers Rajkumar Hirani and Sriram Raghavan and International actor Rachel Griffiths.
The ceremony began with observing a one-minute silence in memory of the legendary actor Dharmendra, honouring his extraordinary contribution to cinema.
During his opening remarks Dr. Nagabhushan promised for an expanded version of WAVES Film Bazar in its 20th Edition. Sh. Magdum underscored success garnered by the previously selected projects. He reaffirmed NFDC’s commitment to nurturing independent minds.
A special wrap-up video capturing the highlights of the festival was showcased, setting the tone for an evening of celebration and recognition.
Major Award Highlights
Waves Film Bazaar honoured outstanding projects across its Co-Production Market, Work-in-Progress Lab, Script Lab, and new AI-driven sections.
- Kakthet (Idiot) – First Co-Production Grant ($10,000)
- Ulta (Madam) – Second Co-Production Grant ($5,000)
- Simhastha Kumbh – Special Documentary Grant ($5,000)
- The Manager, Azhi, Ustad Bantoo – Red Sea Fund Awards
- Nazma Ka Tadka – Platoon One Script Development Grant
- Teacher’s Pet, White Guy – Casting Company Awards
- 7 to 7 – UCCN City of Film Best Project Award
Post-Production Triumphs
Winners such as Khoriya, Azhi, The Ink Stained Hand and the Missing Thumb, Born Yesterday, Aakkaatti, and Khamosh Nazar Aate Hain received major support from Nube Studios, Prasad Corporation, Moviebuff, and others.
Premiere GAP Funding & Distribution
- Echoes of the Herd – Matchbox GAP Award
- Soul Whispers – M5 Global Film Fund
- Chingam – Reborn India Theatrical Distribution Award
AI Film Festival & CinemAI Hackathon: A Global First
Powered by LTIMindtree, this year’s AI showcase attracted entries from 18+ countries, honouring cutting-edge innovation in filmmaking.
- KYRA – Best AI Animation
- The Cinema That Never Was – Most Innovative AI Film
- Nagori – Best AI Short
Special Mentions: The Last Backup Final Part, Miracle on the Kachua Beach
The CinemAI Hackathon celebrated rapid-fire creativity with awards for Sound, Visuals, Storytelling, Innovation and Best AI Film — won by The Red Crayon.
Spotlight on Emerging Talent
The Student Producer’s Workshop honoured standout young creators, including Kaashviy Ommkaar, Aniket Joshi, Radhika Kinare, Riya Varghese, and Sakshi Mishra, showcasing the promising future of Indian cinema.
The ceremony closed with a warm Vote of Thanks by Head of Waves Film Bazaar, Vineeta Mishra followed by a celebratory stage appearance by the full team. With incredible participation, powerful partnerships, and visionary storytelling, Waves Film Bazaar 2025 concludes on a high note — and promises an even bigger, bolder edition in 2026.
