India’s “orange economy” a term encompassing industries such as media, entertainment, gaming, digital content creation, animation, design, performing arts, cultural tourism, and heritage industries has become one of the most dynamic pillars of the country’s economic growth. Once regarded as a soft power tool, these sectors are now an undeniable economic force driving the nation forward. Globally, creative industries contribute roughly 3% of the world’s GDP, and India’s contribution is growing rapidly. Currently valued at over $30-35 billion, the country’s creative economy is on track to surpass $100 billion within the next decade, provided this momentum continues.
The Growth of India’s Orange Economy
India’s creative economy is thriving, largely fueled by its demographic advantage. With a large proportion of its population under 35 years old, the country is positioned perfectly for growth in digital spaces. The widespread availability of smartphones and inexpensive data access has created a fertile ground for digital creators. When you add the rich reservoir of Indian civilizational storytelling, mythology, music, and diverse regional cultures, the opportunities seem boundless. Animation based on Indian epics, AI-powered storytelling inspired by ancient texts, immersive cultural experiences, reimagined devotional music, and gaming based on mythological heroes are no longer distant dreams but are becoming tangible industries.
This remarkable transformation, however, is not purely the result of a growing consumer base. It is driven by political and cultural support that redefines creativity as a powerful economic force. This shift has taken root under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has made it clear that India’s cultural strength should translate into economic power.
From Soft Power to Economic Power
Prime Minister Modi has consistently championed the idea that India’s cultural assets should evolve into a significant economic strength. In his interactions with young entrepreneurs, digital innovators, and content creators, he has emphasized the importance of the “creators’ economy.” According to Modi, this sector is not only a sunrise industry but also a job creator at scale that will strengthen India’s cultural presence globally.
PM Modi has encouraged AI developers, gaming professionals, and other content creators to draw inspiration from India’s rich heritage, particularly the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and regional folklore. This strategic shift highlights a deeper vision: turning India’s civilizational stories into valuable intellectual property. By encouraging creators to incorporate Indian mythological heroes and ethical frameworks into their work, Modi is transforming cultural memory into a monetizable asset. In this framework, culture is not just a reflection of nostalgia but a strategic resource that can be leveraged for global economic and cultural influence.
A New Era of Indian Digital and Cultural Innovation
This transformation is about much more than just technological innovation or cultural preservation; it’s about integrating both into India’s global narrative. Under Modi’s leadership, the government has positioned India’s rich mythology, history, and stories as part of the country’s strategic digital identity. By pushing for content creation that reflects Indian values and heritage, the government has laid the foundation for India to become a global leader in the creative economy.
Modi’s support for digital content creators, from filmmakers to game developers, is fostering an ecosystem where innovation thrives. India’s gaming industry, for example, is increasingly using local stories and heroes, making them appealing to both domestic and international audiences. Likewise, the digital content space is witnessing a surge in diverse storytelling, with Indian themes resonating worldwide.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the growing potential, challenges remain. The creative sector must overcome barriers such as infrastructure gaps, funding access, and global competition. However, the government’s focus on fostering a nurturing ecosystem alongside the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit of India’s youth points toward a promising future for the country’s orange economy. The integration of cultural elements into digital platforms, coupled with the rise of AI, presents new opportunities for India to position itself as a creative powerhouse on the world stage.
Prime Minister Modi’s vision has been instrumental in turbocharging India’s orange economy. The growing emphasis on creativity as an economic force, paired with India’s rich cultural heritage and youthful population, positions the country to play a pivotal role in global creative industries. From animation and digital content creation to gaming and design, India’s creative sector is poised for unprecedented growth, with the potential to redefine the global narrative. Modi’s leadership has not only reshaped how India views its culture but also how it can harness that culture to build a more prosperous and influential future.
