The World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) kicked off on May 1 in Mumbai, bringing together industry heavyweights for a four-day extravaganza. On the second day, Monika Shergill, Netflix India’s head, joined a panel discussion alongside Aditi Rao Hydari, Shefali Shah, and Jahan Kapoor to dissect the future of entertainment and storytelling.
Balancing Creativity and Audience Demand
The panel tackled the delicate balance between creative vision and audience expectations. Shergill emphasized that viewers crave stories rooted in their lives, hopes, and cultural heritage. “Netflix has seen how stories with personal connections resonate globally,” she noted, citing _Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar_ as an example. This Sanjay Leela Bhansali production wove a forgotten yet deeply human narrative around historical figures.
Shefali Shah shared her on-screen jitters. “I always feel like I’m starting from scratch,” she admitted, revealing that this fear drives her creativity.
- Audience Insights: The discussion highlighted the symbiotic relationship between creators and viewers, shaping the future of storytelling.
- Authentic Storytelling: The panel stressed the importance of authenticity and cultural roots in entertainment.
- Innovation: Innovation was touted as a key driver in keeping stories fresh and engaging.
The WAVES Summit continues to provide a platform for industry leaders to share insights and shape the future of entertainment. With discussions like these, it’s clear that the focus is on creating stories that resonate with audiences worldwide.