Delhi High Court Refers Dhurandhar The Revenge Song Copyright Dispute to Mediation
TL;DR
- Delhi High Court refers copyright dispute over song 'Rang De Lal' to mediation.
- Trimurti Films claims unauthorized use of music from 1989 film Tridev in Dhurandhar The Revenge.
- Case to address royalty and licensing issues, with a court-appointed mediator overseeing the process.
Overview
The Delhi High Court has sent the copyright dispute over the song 'Rang De Lal' from the film Dhurandhar The Revenge, involving Trimurti Films and B62 Studios, for mediation. The case focuses on alleged unauthorized use of music from the 1989 movie Tridev.
What Happened
Trimurti Films alleges that 'Rang De Lal', featured in the film Dhurandhar The Revenge produced by B62 Studios, uses music from 'Tirchi Topiwala' (Tridev) without proper authorization.
The company further claims that the unlicensed song is used in theatre, on digital platforms, and in promotional material. They also allege standalone digital availability without permission.
The Court, presided by Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, noted the dispute is mainly financial and suggested resolving compensation and royalty matters via mediation, appointing a senior mediator for the process.
B62 Studios informed the Court that the film has already released in theatres and is unlikely to appear on OTT platforms before mid-May. The Court declined interim relief and mediation will proceed to try and resolve all associated financial and licensing issues.
Context
Copyright disputes involving adaptation or unlicensed use of music in films are common in the Indian entertainment industry.
Mediation is frequently used by Indian courts for intellectual property disputes, particularly where financial compensation and licensing can be settled amicably.
Why It Matters
- The case demonstrates the role of mediation as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism in high-profile copyright cases.
- Resolution through mediation could lead to an industry precedent for addressing similar disputes involving film music rights.
- The outcome may impact digital and theatrical distribution rights for songs that reference or adapt older works.