Create in India Challenge Becomes Global Phenomenon with Nearly 1 Lakh Registrations

The Create in India Challenge (CIC), launched under the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES), has transformed from a national initiative into a global movement. With nearly 1 lakh registrations from across the world, including over 1,100 international participants, CIC Season 1 has struck a powerful chord with creators, technologists, and innovators.

All 32 challenges under CIC are now closed, and anticipation is building for the grand finale at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai, scheduled from May 1 to 4, 2025. The event will culminate in the WAVES Creator Awards ceremony, honouring excellence in creativity across domains.

Global Reach: Participants from Over 60 Countries

CIC has attracted attention from every continent, with entries from over 60 countries. From this rich talent pool, 750 finalists have been selected to exhibit their work at Creatosphere, a platform showcasing innovation across animation, comics, artificial intelligence, XR, gaming, music, and more.

International highlights include:

• 43 global finalists representing over 20 countries

• Strong representation from Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Tajikistan (6 finalists each)

• Finalists from Indonesia and the Maldives (5 each), and Mauritius (4)

• Other participating countries include the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Russia, Canada, Argentina, and more

This widespread international presence brings an inclusive and collaborative flavour to WAVES 2025, underlining India’s growing stature in the global creative economy.

Pan-India Participation from Every State and Union Territory

The challenge saw nationwide engagement, with participants hailing from all 28 Indian states and 8 Union Territories. From the hills of Himachal Pradesh to the coasts of Kerala, and from Gujarat to Meghalaya, the finalist list paints a vivid map of regional talent and diversity.

This expansive domestic footprint demonstrates the depth of India’s creative reservoir and the inclusive nature of the competition.

Celebrating Youth and Inclusivity

The Create in India Challenge has become a canvas for young dreamers and changemakers. Most of the participants are in their 20s, comprising college students, budding professionals, and teenage innovators. Remarkably, the age range of finalists spans from 12 to 66 years, proving that creativity knows no bounds.

This wide generational spectrum reflects CIC’s core ethos—a platform for all.

Challenges that Bridge Heritage and Innovation

The challenges covered an impressive spectrum of themes, marrying tradition with cutting-edge technology. Key highlights include:

• Innovate 2 Educate Challenge – promoting accessible education solutions

• Make the World Wear Khadi – reviving India’s textile heritage for a global audience

• India: A Bird’s Eye View – using drones and storytelling to empower communities, led by ‘Drone Didis’

Each challenge reflects a deep commitment to innovation, social impact, and cultural preservation.

Read More: Startup Mahakumbh 2025: Goyal’s Call to Move Beyond Ice Cream and Instant Delivery in Startup India

Conclusion

As WAVES 2025 draws near, the Create in India Challenge has clearly grown into more than a competition. It is a movement—an embodiment of India’s creative confidence, its global ambition, and its inclusive spirit.

The blend of Indian and international creators has made CIC a beacon of collaborative innovation. It perfectly aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision that “WAVES should reach every home and every heart.”

With its massive participation and inspirational themes, the Create in India Challenge stands as a landmark initiative that celebrates not just talent, but also purpose, diversity, and the future of global media and entertainment.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.