Maharashtra Powers India’s OTT Revolution: Ashish Shelar’s Vision Takes ‘PRESS PLAY’ Global

At the WAVES Summit 2025 in Mumbai, industry insiders gathered for the Roundtable on “OTT & Digital-driven Democratization of Content Creation” to witness the unveiling of PRESS PLAY, India’s OTT Story Goes Global. This comprehensive research report highlights how Maharashtra—under the dynamic leadership of Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar—is architecting the next wave of streaming success.

Maharashtra’s Strategic EdgeMaharashtra has long been a cultural powerhouse, but its recent policies have turbocharged growth in media, gaming, and digital arts. Ashish Shelar’s office has championed startup incubators, relaxed shooting clearances, and invested in state-of-the-art studios—lowering barriers for creators and proving that heritage and innovation can thrive side by side.

Key Highlights from ‘PRESS PLAY’

• Policy Reforms: Streamlined content regulations and incentives for local OTT platforms.

• Infrastructure Boost: New film and gaming hubs in Pune and Navi Mumbai.

• Talent Development: Collaborations with AAFT and Creativeland Studios for training programs.
  

Voices from the SummitJoining Shelar on stage were global executives—from Netflix and Amazon Prime Video to JioHotstar, Zee, and Google—alongside creative visionaries such as David Unger (Artists International Group) and Nicolas Granatino (Novaquark). Their unanimous praise underscored Maharashtra’s blueprint as a model for other states.

The Road AheadAs Ashish Shelar puts it, “Our mission is to democratize storytelling—empowering every creator, from indie filmmakers to game developers.” With this ethos, Maharashtra is set to export its OTT expertise worldwide.

Conclusion:The WAVES Summit 2025 has firmly established Maharashtra—and Ashish Shelar’s policy leadership—as the driving force behind India’s OTT revolution. As PRESS PLAY goes global, the state’s blend of tradition and tech is poised to reshape digital entertainment for years to come.