Ilaiyaraaja triumphs in copyright dispute over 'Dude' songs
What's the story
In a significant victory for composer Ilaiyaraaja, the Madras High Court has ordered the immediate removal of two songs from the hit Tamil film Dude. The court's decision came after Mythri Movie Makers, Dude's production company, sought seven days to comply with its interim injunction order. However, Justice N Senthilkumar denied this request, stating that no extra time could be granted as Ilaiyaraaja had established a prima facie case for granting an injunction.
Legal proceedings
Court's reasoning for immediate compliance
The court emphasized that the order must be complied with immediately, especially since it was proven that the two songs were "mutilated and distorted" without Ilaiyaraaja's consent. The next hearing in the case has been adjourned to January 7, during which Mythri Movie Makers will be required to file a formal response to Ilaiyaraaja's petition.
Legal dispute
Ilaiyaraaja's legal argument and Mythri Movie Makers's defense
Ilaiyaraaja's lawyer had claimed that the rights to the songs, Karthu Machaan (Pudhu Nellu Pudu Naathu) and 100 Varusham Indah Mappilaikkhu, belong to their client. The lawyer also stated that Echo, the music label, had already been issued a restraining order against using these songs. In response, Mythri Movie Makers claimed that they had obtained the rights from Sony Music, which currently holds the copyright for both songs.
Film's journey
'Dude' continues to face legal challenges despite commercial success
Despite earning over ₹100 crore, Dude has been embroiled in legal issues. The film's plot revolves around cousins Agan (Pradeep Ranganathan) and Kural (Mamitha Baiju), who find themselves in a complicated relationship after one of them falls in love with the other and proposes marriage. It's streaming on Netflix.