The FICCI-BAF Awards 2025 were held yesterday, marking a significant celebration of excellence within the Animation, Visual Effects (VFX), Gaming, Comics, and Extended Reality (XR) sectors. Established in 2004, the Best Animated Frames (BAF) Awards have evolved into India’s premier platform that recognizes and honors groundbreaking innovation, creativity, and technological advancements in the AVGC-XR industry.
The 2025 edition of the awards featured an impressive 33 categories, honoring remarkable contributions across the industry, including Best Animated Feature, Best VFX in Films, Best Game Design, and Best XR Experience. This prestigious event not only celebrated exceptional work but also served as a catalyst for further innovation, offering an invaluable platform for students, professionals, and studios to showcase their talent. The awards also provided networking opportunities with industry leaders, producers, and investors, fostering collaboration and growth within the sector.
During the ceremony, FICCI also launched the Annual FICCI-EY Media and Entertainment (M&E) Report – Shaping the Future, providing key insights into the growth trajectory of the industry. According to the report, India’s M&E sector grew by 3.3% in 2024, reaching an impressive INR 2.5 trillion (US$29.4 billion). The report highlighted digital media as the largest segment, growing by 17% to INR 802 billion, while advertising revenues also saw an 8.1% rise, largely driven by digital platforms, live events, and Out-of-Home (OOH) media. However, a slight 2% decline in subscription revenues impacted traditional media segments, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies and policy support to further boost growth. The sector is projected to grow at a rate of 7.2% in 2025, with a total value of INR 3.1 trillion by 2027, driven primarily by digital expansion, strategic alliances, and AI-driven advancements.
Mr. Munjal Shroff, Chair of the FICCI AVGC-XR Forum, expressed his enthusiasm about the awards, stating, “The FICCI BAF Awards 2025 celebrate the ingenuity, passion, and dedication of India’s AVGC-XR industry. As technology and storytelling evolve, India is emerging as a powerhouse in content creation for global audiences. We deeply appreciate the Government of Maharashtra for their unwavering support in nurturing the creative ecosystem and fostering innovation in the AVGC-XR sector. The future of our industry is exceptionally promising, and we remain committed to advancing India’s leadership in this space.”
The FICCI BAF Awards 2025 reaffirmed FICCI’s commitment to supporting the continued growth and development of India’s AVGC-XR industry, positioning the country as a leading global hub for cutting-edge creativity and technological excellence. With the next generation of creators being given a dynamic platform to showcase their talent, the event highlighted the immense potential for India to take the lead in this rapidly evolving space.