Prasar Bharati has launched its over-the-top (OTT) streaming platform. Named Waves, the OTT service is aimed at delivering a wide spectrum of content, including movies, TV series, live events, audio, games, as well as pictorial ebooks, to audiences nationwide.
Prasar Bharati Waves Subscription Plans: How Much Do They Cost?
Subscription Tiers
Platinum Plan
- Access: Unlock all content, including movies, live shows, TV specials, and more
- Devices: Stream on up to 4 devices simultaneously
- Quality: Enjoy Ultra HD (1080P) streaming
- Discounts: 10 per cent off TVODs (on-demand streaming)
- Additional Features: Downloads, live TV channels, radio access, and background play included
Diamond Plan
- Access: Get movies, live TV channels, and other exciting content
- Devices: Connect on 2 devices
- Quality: High Definition (720P) streaming
- Additional Features: Includes downloads, radio, and live TV options
Gold Plan
- Access: Stream movies and shows on one device
- Quality: Standard Definition (480P) streaming
- Additional Features: Radio and live TV access included
Price Plans
Annual Subscriptions:
- Platinum Plan: Rs 999 per year
- Diamond Plan: Rs 350 per year
Quarterly Subscriptions:
- Diamond Plan: Rs 85 for three months
Monthly Subscriptions:
- Diamond Plan: Rs 30 per month
Where to Download Waves
The app can be downloaded from the Google Play store for Android users and the Apple App Store for iOS devices.
It should be noted that you will have to visit the website on either your mobile browser or on the desktop, Waves.pb, to make payments for subscription plans. The app does not support payment functionalities as of yet.
What Does Waves Offer?
Waves brings a lineup of content in 12 languages, including Hindi, English, Tamil, Marathi, and Assamese.
The app encompasses a range of genres such as infotainment, education, gaming, and online shopping.
Key offerings include:
- 65 live TV channels
- Video-on-demand services
- Interactive games
- Online shopping powered by ONDC
- Photo galleries/ebooks on historic milestones and national legends
Supporting Digital Inclusion
Sanjay Jaju, Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, described the platform as a pivotal step in advancing the Digital India initiative. By leveraging BharatNet, the app aims to make digital entertainment accessible to rural communities.
Prasar Bharati Chairman Navneet Kumar Sehgal underscored the app’s role in promoting India’s cultural legacy while serving as an all-in-one hub for family-friendly entertainment, education, and shopping.
Empowering Young Creators
The app actively supports emerging talent, collaborating with content creators like Kamiya Jani and RJ Raunac and forging partnerships with film institutions such as FTII and Annapurna to showcase student work. CEO Gaurav Dwivedi emphasised the platform’s focus on nurturing young talent in the content industry.
Exclusive IFFI 2024 Content
The unveiling of Waves took place at the prestigious International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant officiating the launch. Praising the initiative, Sawant highlighted the app's significance for multilingual audiences, with special attention to its Konkani offerings.
To mark its debut, Waves is streaming a slate of exclusive shows and films at IFFI 2024, including:
- Roll No.52 starring Nagarjuna and Amala Akkineni
- Fauji 2.0 with Gauhar Khan
- Kicking Balls by Guneet Monga Kapoor
Additionally, the platform offers animated series, music shows, crime dramas, and more.
Live Events and Collaborations
From broadcasting Mann Ki Baat and Ayodhya’s Prabhu Shriram Lalla Aarti to airing global cricket tournaments like the US Premier League, Waves integrates live programming into its offerings. It also runs a cybersecurity awareness campaign in partnership with CDAC.