In this special Industry Spotlight, a WAVES Film Bazaar 2025 feature, director R. Sarath reflected on his evolution from documentary filmmaking to narrative cinema, driven by a commitment to social issues. While documentaries have immediacy, he believes fiction provides a wider creative canvas to examine nuclear anxiety, systemic pressures on women, neurodiversity, and family dynamics, engaging audiences while holding a mirror to society. Sarath highlighted the enduring importance of regional cinema in global storytelling. Though Indian regional films have long earned international recognition, he noted that contemporary creators still face challenges in securing wide global reach. Yet platforms like Waves, he said, are helping bridge that gap by championing culturally specific stories with universal appeal. He described WAVES Film Bazaar as a crucial meeting point for filmmakers, producers, distributors, and sales agents worldwide, a place where regional voices can gain exposure, mentorship, and pathways to co-production and distribution. This year, Sarath is presenting an Indo-British co-production that examines the India League in London and its role in the freedom struggle. Through Waves, he aims to connect with partners who can help bring this perspective-driven historical project to international audiences. Sarath’s participation reflects WAVES’ continued mission: empowering filmmakers to transform local stories into globally resonant cinema.