Delhi High Court Stays Rs- 2 Crore Penalty against A.R. Rahman in Copyright Dispute

A.R. Rahman, the Oscar-winning composer who has been a trailblazing figure in the music industry for over three decades, recently found himself embroiled in a legal controversy concerning copyright infringement. Known globally for his unique ability to harmonize Indian classical music with contemporary styles, Rahman has long been a pillar of innovation in Indian and international cinema. However, a recent copyright dispute has drawn legal scrutiny over one of his latest works in director Mani Ratnam’s epic period drama Ponniyin Selvan: Part 2.

The controversy centers around the song “Veera Raja Veera,” composed by Rahman for the film’s soundtrack. A copyright complaint was filed alleging unauthorized usage of elements from pre-existing works, which the complainant claimed amounted to infringement. Acting on the complaint, a single-judge bench of the Delhi High Court had previously directed both Rahman and Madras Talkies, the production company behind the film, to deposit a sum of Rs 2 crore as an interim measure. The directive was issued pending further examination of the claims, effectively placing the onus on Rahman and the producers to demonstrate the originality of the composition.

However, in a significant development, the Delhi High Court has granted interim relief to Rahman and Madras Talkies. A division bench, headed by Justice Hari Shankar, issued a stay on the earlier order, thereby temporarily halting the requirement to deposit the specified amount. The court passed this order after hearing Rahman’s appeal challenging the decision of the single-judge bench. The division bench held that the matter required closer judicial scrutiny and that no coercive steps should be taken until the appeal is properly adjudicated.

This interim relief has been seen as a reprieve for Rahman and the production house, allowing them to pursue a fair hearing without immediate financial burden. The case is being closely followed within the entertainment and legal fraternities, as its outcome could potentially set important precedents regarding artistic expression, derivative works, and the enforcement of copyright laws in India.