Panaji, Nov. 21 -- The 19th edition of the WAVES Film Bazaar opened with an unexpected moment on Thursday when South Korean lawmaker Jaewon Kim sang Vande Mataram during the inaugural ceremony, drawing a standing ovation from delegates and filmmakers gathered for the event.

Kim, a Member of the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea and a Guest of Honour at the ceremony, praised the organisers for their "commitment and consistency since the first edition." Expressing hope for deeper India-Korea ties in the creative sector, she said the Film Bazaar reflects "a wonderful commitment to collaboration."

Her rendition of India's national song came as the country marks 150 years of Vande Mataram, adding symbolic weight to the opening day....