New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has issued an interim ruling against Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman and production house Madras Talkies in a copyright infringement lawsuit concerning the song ‘Veera Raja Veera’ from the 2023 Tamil blockbuster Ponniyin Selvan 2 (PS2).
Allegations of Copyright Violation
Padma Shri awardee and classical singer Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar had filed the suit in 2023, claiming that the composition of ‘Veera Raja Veera’ was copied from ‘Shiva Stuti’, a piece created by his father, Nasir Faiyazuddin Dagar, and uncle, Zahiruddin Dagar, collectively known as the Junior Dagar Brothers. Dagar sought a permanent ban on the song’s usage, monetary compensation, and recognition of his family’s moral rights.
Court’s Findings
Justice Prathiba M Singh, while pronouncing the verdict on Dagar’s interim plea, stated that Veera Raja Veera’ was not merely inspired by Shiva Stuti but was “identical with certain changes.” The court noted that Rahman and Madras Talkies had failed to credit the original composers initially and directed them to rectify this by adding due credits on digital platforms.
Interim Directions
– Rahman and Madras Talkies must deposit ₹2 crore with the court registry while the case is pending.
– An additional ₹2 lakh penalty was imposed for the lack of attribution.
Rahman’s Defense
Rahman had denied the allegations, arguing that ‘Shiva Stuti’ is a traditional Dhrupad composition in the public domain. He maintained that Veera Raja Veera’ was an original creation, blending Western musical techniques with 227 distinct layers far removed from Hindustani classical conventions.
Next Steps
The case will proceed further, but the interim order underscores the importance of crediting original creators. Advocates Neel Mason and Arjun Harkauli represented Dagar in the proceedings.
This ruling could set a significant precedent for intellectual property disputes in the Indian music and film industry.